The Chi, the Showtime drama created by Lena Waithe, which was first released on 7th January 2018, is now in its seventh season. The series explores life on the South Side of Chicago, connecting the lives of several characters. Among them is Jada Washington, played by Yolonda Ross. In Season 7, Jada faces her biggest challenge yet, a return of the cancer she once defeated.

This time, it’s terminal. Her decision to stop treatment has led fans to wonder: Is Yolonda Ross leaving The Chi? As her storyline grows more emotional, many believe Jada’s time on the show may be coming to an end. Let's explore her possible fate.
Jada’s terminal illness and what it means: Is Yolonda Ross leaving The Chi?
Jada has been a steady character on The Chi from the start. Her role as Emmett’s mother and her personal growth have made her a fan favorite. In season four, she bravely battled cancer and survived. But now, in season seven, the illness has returned, more aggressive than before. This time, chemotherapy is no longer an option. The doctors have given her devastating news: the cancer has spread too far.
In response, Jada makes a heartbreaking choice. She refuses further treatment and decides to face the end on her own terms. This development has made viewers wonder: Is Yolonda Ross leaving The Chi? It’s a fair question, especially after recent episodes that seem to hint at her departure.
One key moment happens in episode 10, Tha Block Is Hot, when Jada gives her engagement ring to Emmett and tells him she hopes he’ll one day propose to Kiesha with it. Emmett follows through and asks Keisha the question, though Keisha doesn’t answer right away. The emotional weight of the scene suggests that Jada may not be around much longer. Without medical care, and with the cancer labeled as terminal, Jada is most likely going to pass away.
Unless the show makes an unexpected turn, like a sudden cure to her cancer, it appears her story is reaching its end. That makes the speculation about whether Yolonda Ross is leaving The Chi feel even more true.
However, it’s important to note that her possible exit doesn’t appear to come from any off-screen conflict. Instead, it’s a creative decision that will allow the show to explore real and difficult themes of loss and family.
Jada’s journey this season has been portrayed with care. It seems that the show aims to handle her exit respectfully and honestly. Her moments of reflection, her moments with her loved ones, and her final wishes show a woman who wants to leave behind a lot of love, not sorrow.
Even if Jada leaves, her presence will continue to shape the show. Her relationship with Emmett has helped him grow, her strength has touched every character she’s met, and her impact will live on long after she’s gone.
There’s no official word yet if Yolanda Ross is leaving the show, but all signs point toward a farewell. Jada’s story seems to be reaching an emotional conclusion. No matter what happens, her role in The Chi will be remembered.
The eleventh episode of season seven of The Chi came out on 25th July 2025 on Paramount+ with SHOWTIME and will be released on SHOWTIME on 27th July 2025.
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