“The Chi” is losing its first transgender character. Jasmine Davis played “Imani,” the girlfriend of actor Luke James‘ character “Trig” in seasons 3 and 4.
Lena Waithe‘s Chicago-based TV drama introduced the show’s first male-to-female trans character in season 3.
“It’s definitely the gayest season ever,” Waithe (pictured) said at the time. “We kick off with two black women marrying each other in holy matrimony.”
“I’m so excited that we finally get to introduce our first trans character this season,” she added. “Her name is Jasmine, she’s a Chicago native, she’s fantastic.”
Even though Davis was warmly welcomed by viewers of The Chi, the actor made the decision to leave in protest of Disney’s delayed response to Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill. The bill was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Davis took to social media on April 22 to announce the departure, writing:
“Due to the many inquiries I’m officially announcing I will not be part in Season 5 of @SHOTheChi and I will no longer be part of #thechi/#disneyproduction. Sending a BIG THANKS to all my family and supporters/fans who have embraced me with along this journey.”
Due to the many inquiries I’m officially announcing. I will not be in season 5 of @SHOTheChi and I will no longer be part of #thechi / #disneyproduction
Sending a BIG THANKS ?? to all of my family and supporters/fans who have embraced me with ? along this journey.? #selfworth pic.twitter.com/HNRyImMrau— Jasmine Davis (@TheJasmineDavis) April 22, 2022