China Anne McClain on Black Lightning: 'This Chapter of My Life is Closing'

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After the CW shockingly announced to cast and fans alike that Black Lightning would be discontinued after the upcoming fourth season, China Anne McClain revealed that she was already halfway out the door in a candid Instagram video.

“What I did know and have known along with the rest of the cast since before we even started shooting this season is that I am leaving the show,” shared the actress. “This was going to be my last season — regardless if it went on or not.”

McClain, who plays Jennifer Pierce/Lightning, stated that she signed on for a limited number of episodes. Although the 22-year-old didn’t give an exact cause or reason behind her exit, it’s clear that the events that occurred in 2020 and reflection during quarantine have served as her leading decision-maker, “There’s been a lot to happen over this quarantine and I’m not talking about the PC side of it. These people that are dying and the way of the world now. It’s real. And all this is an illusion.”

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“This industry for what it is and everything that people look to and praise, it’s not important God is moving me in more than one way than just this show,” she continued. “It’s bigger than this show. I’m doing God’s work now… and I’m not doing anything else.”

While fighting back tears, the House of Payne actress made a point to add that she wasn’t leaving because of on-set drama or unhappiness with the show nor network but rather it was a personal choice.

Towards the end of the video, McClain urges fans to support Painkiller, the spinoff series starring co-star Jordan Calloway. But for now, “This chapter of my life is closing and I’m so excited for what’s next.”

Watch her full statement below:

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