Birgundi Baker has captured hearts with her breakout role on Showtime’s “The Chi,” where her portrayal brings depth, emotion, and authenticity to the screen. A graduate of Howard University, Baker has steadily built a career rooted in purpose and passion, using her talent to spotlight the real-life struggles and triumphs of young Black women. In this interview, she reflects on her journey into acting, the impact of “The Chi,” and the importance of telling stories that resonate, heal, and inspire.
You’ve been part of “The Chi” since the early seasons. How has your character evolved, and what’s been the most surprising part of that journey for you?
Oh, my goodness. My character is a mom now. When we first saw her, she was a teenager hiding under the bed, and now she’s a mom running a household, taking care of children, going to work, and in a committed relationship. We’ve seen her grow over the years—pretty much from a child to a woman. I think the most shocking part to me is motherhood. If you’d shown me Keisha on day one, I would’ve never expected her to become such a wonderful mom. She was just living her life, you know?
What initially drew you to the role of Keisha, and how did you prepare to portray her with such emotional depth?
What drew me to Keisha was her simply being a young Black girl in the city. I love real stories, true storytelling, and I knew “The Chi” was going to be that. It was an opportunity to represent young Black girls who are just like me.
The show tackles real-life issues with authenticity. How do you personally connect with the themes explored in “The Chi?”
Family first. I really love the dynamics they show between all the families. That’s a big thing for me. I come from a Black family, so I can relate to a lot of the issues—the arguments, the disagreements, making big life choices. I love that “The Chi” shows that. And just being a woman, Keisha is a Black woman. It’s not hard at all for me to relate to her relationship issues, her desires, and her life goals. It’s just so easy to connect with Keisha.
How has being part of the series shaped you as an actor, both professionally and personally?
“The Chi” has made me dig into everything I’ve got. When Keisha was missing, when she went through the kidnapping, that made me dig deeper than I ever have before as an artist. I’ll always appreciate “The Chi” for that. It was a huge responsibility to represent missing Black girls everywhere. I had to isolate myself, study really hard—not just the lines, but the emotion. I did interviews with the Black and Missing Foundation, and they told me stories about specific Black girls who were missing at the time. It was a lot to take on, but it made me step up and taught me how to dive into the work and pour out everything I’ve got.
I was a mess the day I watched the episode where Keisha almost escapes. That was such a powerful performance. My heart shattered when she got caught. That’s phenomenal storytelling and acting at the highest level. I applaud you for that.
What has it been like working under Lena’s creative direction and being part of a show so deeply rooted in Chicago culture?
It’s been wonderful. I’m truly honored. She’s a great storyteller and has given us an incredible opportunity. This has been my best experience so far. Chicago has welcomed me with open arms. I’m originally from North Carolina, but I guess I’m an honorary Chicagoan now. It’s been amazing.
I’ve interviewed several cast members, and it’s rare to find a whole cast of such great people. How would you describe your relationship with your fellow stars?
I’d describe it like family. It’s always fun on set. We hang out outside of work—laughing, dancing, singing. Everyone is easy to get along with, and we’ve grown together. It’s definitely a family.
You’ve portrayed some intense and traumatic storylines. How do you decompress after filming those scenes?
A director once told me to just let it go. Carrying that with you is too much for your personal life. You pour out everything on camera, and once you do that, it’s easier to release it.
Do you ever have moments where a character or trait sticks with you after filming?
No, I can’t do that to myself. It’s too much. There are moments on set where Keisha’s feelings overlap with mine, and the director will give me time to decompress and refocus on Keisha. But afterward, I let it go. You can’t take it home.
Fans connect with Keisha’s resilience. How do you portray strength without losing vulnerability?
I think vulnerability and strength go hand in hand. It takes strength to be vulnerable. It’s like a dance—you pick moments to show each. The script guides a lot of it. Keisha dips in and out of both, and that’s what I love about her. You have to be strong to be vulnerable and vulnerable to find strength.
Outside of acting, has the show inspired you to get involved with any causes?
Yes, I’ve built a great relationship with the Black and Missing Foundation. I also do speaking engagements, like with SAGE, an adolescent group in North Carolina, and at my alma mater, Howard University. It’s given me a chance to represent Black women.
You’re originally from North Carolina, but now part of a show that represents Chicago so deeply. What does that mean to you?
I’m truly honored. They could’ve chosen anyone—I remember the audition room being packed with girls who looked just like me. I respect Chicago’s culture and stories, and I’m grateful to be trusted with this role.
Looking ahead, what roles or projects do you hope to take on next?
I was a musical theater major, so I’d love to dive into that more. I also want to keep telling real stories like Keisha’s—stories that inspire Black women.
What message do you hope audiences take from Keisha’s journey and “The Chi” overall?
I hope people are inspired to be resilient, to find strength within themselves, and to bounce back from anything.
One last question: After seven seasons as Keisha, what’s something about her you want fans to know?
I see comments calling Keisha “angry” or “complaining,” but she’s human. Healing is a journey. She survived something many don’t, and we’re watching her heal. Be patient with her. Have grace.
Be’n Original
