Everybody Hates Chris Cast: After 18 Years Then and Now

Introduction

The hit TV sitcom Everybody Hates Chris aired from 2005 to 2009 on UPN and The CW. The show was inspired by the childhood experiences of comedian Chris Rock and followed a young Chris Rock (played by Tyler James Williams) as he grew up in Brooklyn, New York in the 1980s. Everybody Hates Chris became a huge success and earned multiple NAACP Image Awards and Primetime Emmy nominations during its four season run.

Now, over 18 years after Everybody Hates Chris first premiered, let's take a look at where the cast of the show is today.

Tyler James Williams as Chris

Tyler James Williams played a young Chris Rock in Everybody Hates Chris. He perfectly captured Chris' sense of humor and charm while also showcasing his everyday struggles. Everybody Hates Chris was Tyler's breakout role and earned him two NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series.

Since the end of Everybody Hates Chris, Tyler has continued acting in both TV and film. Some of his notable credits include starring roles in shows like The Walking Dead, Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, and Abbott Elementary. He also appeared in movies like Dear White People, Detroit, and Instant Family. Tyler most recently had a recurring role on the hit Netflix series Ozark.

Terry Crews as Julius

Terry Crews portrayed Chris' frugal father Julius on the show. Julius worked multiple jobs to support his family and often came up with "get rich quick" schemes. Terry perfectly captured the stern, cheap, and easily frustrated nature of Julius - but also showed his softer side as a loving father. Crews was already an established actor when he took on the role of Julius, with previous credits in White Chicks, Friday After Next, and Everybody Loves Raymond.

After Everybody Hates Chris, Terry Crews continued his successful acting career. He is perhaps best known for playing Sergeant Terry Jeffords on the sitcom Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Crews has also been featured in films like The Expendables series, Sorry to Bother You, and Deadpool 2. Outside of acting, Terry is an author, host, and activist.

Tichina Arnold as Rochelle

Tichina Arnold portrayed Chris' mother, the strict but caring Rochelle on Everybody Hates Chris. Rochelle worked as a security guard and kept a close eye on Chris and his siblings. Tichina perfectly balanced Rochelle's tough exterior with her devotion to her family. Prior to Everybody Hates Chris, Tichina was best known for playing Pam on the sitcom Martin in the 1990s.

Since her time on Everybody Hates Chris, Tichina has continued to act in television. Some of her most notable roles have been on shows like Survivor's Remorse, The Neighborhood, and The Last O.G. She also competed on season 28 of Dancing with the Stars. Tichina still occasionally performs music and released her debut album in 2012.

Imani Hakim as Tonya

Imani Hakim played Chris' smart and insightful little sister Tonya on Everybody Hates Chris. Although Tonya was often quiet and shy, she would also call out her family members when they were making poor choices. Imani was excellent at portraying Tonya's innocence and wisdom beyond her years.

Since her breakout role on Everybody Hates Chris, Imani Hakim has continued acting in television. She had a main role on the TNT drama The Last Ship and has also appeared on shows like Ghost Whisperer, The Gabby Douglas Story, and Trollhunters. Outside of acting, Imani is involved in charity work and advocates for youth empowerment.

Vincent Martella as Greg

Vincent Martella played Chris' goofy best friend Greg on Everybody Hates Chris. Greg would follow Chris into all kinds of mischief and hijinks, but was also extremely loyal. Vincent made Greg both hilarious and likeable. Prior to Everybody Hates Chris, Vincent was best known for voicing Phineas on the cartoon Phineas and Ferb.

After Everybody Hates Chris, Vincent continued voice acting and played Phineas for the entirety of Phineas and Ferb's run. He also voiced Hope on Adventure Time. Vincent's other acting credits include roles on shows like The Walking Dead, Mom, and Teachers. He continues to do voice work and recently launched a podcast called Left on Read.

Tequan Richmond as Drew

Tequan Richmond portrayed Chris' older brother Drew on Everybody Hates Chris. Drew was popular, confident, and looked out for Chris at school. But he would also pick on Chris at home. Tequan balanced Drew's smugness with his sweeter, more vulnerable side. Prior to being cast on the show, Tequan was best known for his role in Ray.

After Everybody Hates Chris, Tequan Richmond continued acting in film and television. Some of his most notable credits include recurring roles on shows like Blue Mountain State, Recovery Road, and Power. He also appeared in movies like We the Party and Steeplechase. Outside of acting, Tequan directs music videos.

Supporting Cast

Everybody Hates Chris also featured an excellent supporting cast of actors. Some standouts include:

• Jason Alexander as Principal Edwards - Alexander appeared in multiple episodes as Chris and Drew's long-suffering principal.
• Jackée Harry as Sheila - Sheila was Rochelle's friend and coworker who would get caught up in wacky misadventures.
• Ernestine Jackson as Jilon - The sassy owner of the local bodega who often butted heads with Julius.
• Antonio Fargas as Doc - Doc was the Rock family's colorful next door neighbor who enjoyed gambling and lounge singing.

Where Are They Now?

It's amazing to look back at the cast of Everybody Hates Chris nearly 20 years later. The child and teen actors are all grown up now enjoying successful Hollywood careers. It's a testament to their talent that they were able to make their marks in the industry at such young ages. Meanwhile, veteran actors like Terry Crews and Jackée Harry are still household names appearing in hit shows and movies.

While a reboot is unlikely since the show was so tied to a specific time and Chris Rock's childhood, the popularity of Everybody Hates Chris lives on through syndication and streaming. The show is currently available to watch on services like Peacock. Fans can relive the hilarious and heartwarming moments of the Rock family anytime they want!

Everybody Hates Chris offered a unique perspective on growing up in a working class family in the 1980s. The show balanced humor with surprising emotional depth. And the cast was able to bring these characters to life perfectly. It's no wonder Everybody Hates Chris remains a beloved sitcom even today.

FAQs

How many seasons of Everybody Hates Chris were there?

Everybody Hates Chris ran for 4 seasons from 2005 to 2009.

What years was Everybody Hates Chris set in?

The show took place in the 1980s and followed Chris Rock's childhood experiences growing up in Brooklyn, NY.

What network aired Everybody Hates Chris originally?

Everybody Hates Chris first aired on UPN for its first season in 2005. The show then moved to The CW network for its remaining 3 seasons until 2009.

Who were the main cast members on Everybody Hates Chris?

The main cast included Tyler James Williams as young Chris, Terry Crews as his father Julius, Tichina Arnold as his mother Rochelle, Tequan Richmond as his brother Drew, and Imani Hakim as his sister Tonya.

Is Everybody Hates Chris streaming online?

Yes, you can currently stream episodes of Everybody Hates Chris on Peacock and some episodes are also available on The CW website and app.