Michael Epps(I)

Actor Michael Epps has quickly positioned himself as a one-to-watch in the entertainment industry through the dynamic characters he has brought to life on screen. This year, Epps will reprise his starring role in season three of Showtime's award-winning series "The Chi." Created by Emmy award winner Lena Waithe, the coming-of-age drama follows Jake, Emmett, PaPa, Keisha, Bakari and many other residents of Chicago who become linked by coincidence, but bonded by the need for connection and redemption. The show first premiered in 2018 to rave reviews, with USA Today claiming it's a "superb new show" and The A.V. Club nodding that the series "features Emmy-worthy performances." The Chi was recently announced to Paramount and Showtime highest rated shows currently airing on their network! Epps shines as fan- favorite Jake Taylor, PaPa and Bakari best friends, and younger brother to councilman Victor (Luke James) and local gang leader (Barton Fitzpatrick). Jake is struggling to find his own life path and constantly at the risk of falling under his brother Reg influence. The Chi show has just been renewed for a record breaking 8th season! Born on a Virginia naval base but raised in Chicago, Epps knew early on that he wanted to follow in his mom's footsteps and become an actor. Following his first audition, he immediately booked a role as an extra in FOX's "Empire." From there he went on to book his starring role as Jake Taylor in "The Chi" Epps continues to hone in on his craft, guest starring in NBC's action-drama series such as "Chicago Med" and "Chicago Fire," opposite Jesse Spencer, Taylor Kinney and Eamonn Walker. On the music front, Epps goes by the moniker MIKE, he released his debut single "Drip" in 2019. He is now in the studio working on new music and is dropping his 2nd single this summer 2025. While he continues to curate his sound, Epps cites Lil Baby, G Herbo, Chief Keefe and various artists as his main sources of inspiration. In his free time, Epps enjoys streaming video games, on Twitch, hanging out with his family, childhood friends, and dominating the basketball court as a center. On the charity front, he is eager to get more involved with organizations helping the homeless and local schools on the West Side of Chicago where he was raised. Epps resides in the Chicago area.