Cortez Smith Reflects on Nuck’s Explosive Journey in 'The Chi' and what's next for the versatile actor
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Reel Perspectives
July 3, 2026
Evolution - the one word that Cortez Smith wants viewers to take away from Nuck's journey.
For years, The Chi has stood as one of television's most authentic and layered depictions of life on Chicago's South Side. Created by Lena Waithe, the series has earned praise for its powerful representation and commitment to showcasing the struggles, hopes, and dreams of Black men and women navigating life, love, loyalty, and survival. As the final season continues streaming on Paramount+, we sat with the talented Cortez Smith, who portrays Isiah "Nuck" Rogers. The actor first stepped into the role in 2019 and carved out a space for Nuck as one of the series' most complex and unpredictable characters.
What could have easily been a one dimensional street character evolved into something far deeper. As Smith would tell it, he's living in a "full circle moment," having friends and associates who became products of their environment and leaned into the streets. With that firsthand experience, he had the unique opportunity to bring his character to life, where Nuck wasn't just muscle, he was layered with ambition and conflict. Cortez expained he sees Nuck as more of an anti-hero, motivated by survival, and less of a villain.
Born and raised on the vibrant West Side of Chicago, Smith brought an undeniable authenticity to the role, with his performance deeply rooted in the city itself, making Nuck's journey all the more compelling as The Chi continued to explore the realities of systemic struggle, violence, family loyalty, and redemption.
Over the years, Nuck rose through the ranks and became one of the show's most gripping arcs when he killed Douda (Curtiss Cook) and took control of the 63rd Street Mob, making him a major power player on the streets of Chicago. That all came to a head in one of Season 8's most pivotal episodes, episode 5, with a brutal, emotionally charged confrontation that changed everything. Nuck was shot and killed by Tiffany (Hannaha Hall) after she uncovered the truth that he murdered her fiancé, Robert "Rob" Lafayette (Iman Shumpert). The explosive face-off delivered one of the most inetense moments of the season and marked the end of an era for Smith's character.
While Nuck's story may have ended, Smith's performance leaves a lasting impact. Ahead of that pivotal episode, we sat down with the charismatic Smith to discuss his journey with Nuck and what it meant for him to represent Chicago on screen. The versatile actor already has several projects lined up, with an exciting array on the horizon, including both television and film. Beyond acting, he is a passionate advocate for men's mental health, having founded the non-profit organization "Cortez Cares," highlighting the significance of community support and giving back. Additionally, his flair for fashion also shines through in his very successful clothing line, "Eros Christian."
As The Chi prepares to conclude its celebrated run on Friday, July 24, 2026, Smith may be saying goodbye to Nuck, but his next chapter is just beginning.
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