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Chozen
GenreAnimated sitcom
Created byGrant Dekernion
Voices of
Country of originUnited States
Original languageEnglish
No. of episodes13 (3 Unaired)
Production
Executive producers
Producers
Running time21–23 minutes
Production companies
Original release
NetworkFX
ReleaseJanuary 13 (2014-01-13) –
March 31, 2014 (2014-03-31)

Chozen is an American adult animated sitcom on FX. The series aired from January 13 to March 31, 2014, and which was created by Grant Dekernion.[1][2] The show ran for one season.

Plot

[edit]

Chozen is a gay white gangsta rapper on a quest to rebuild his career after being released from prison.[2]

Production

[edit]

Chozen was announced as the first original series pick-up for FXX, FX's spin-off network that launched in 2013,[2] but was later reassigned to FX where it aired after Archer on Monday nights.[1]

The series was a collaboration between the producers of Eastbound & Down and the producers of Archer.[1]

On May 14, 2014, Chozen was cancelled after one season.[3][4]

Chozen was released on DVD on December 16, 2014 exclusively through Amazon as a "manufactured on demand" DVD-R set.[5] The MOD double-disc set contains three previously unaired episodes.

Characters

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Main characters

[edit]
  • Phillip "Chozen" Cullens (voiced by Bobby Moynihan, singing voice provided by Grant DeKernion) – A 28-year-old, white, gay rapper. Framed for crimes he did not commit, he survived a 10-year prison sentence. Upon his release, he sets out to reclaim what is his. His music and lyrics take aim at the stereotypes of machismo and misogyny that are synonymous with rap music. Adding to the challenge of an already lofty set of goals, Chozen is ten years behind in areas crucial to a successful music career, such as technology and pop-culture in general.
  • Crisco (voiced by Hannibal Buress) – A struggling rapper in his late twenties. Crisco previously worked entertaining children with positive rap lyrics. He is largely a gigolo, living rent-free as long as his girlfriend is sexually satisfied.
  • Ricky (voiced by Michael Peña) – A DJ and fellow rapper who works alongside Crisco performing at kids' birthday parties. His catchphrase is finishing his sentences with "...and shit". He still lives at home (although he claims he lives in a separate unit).
  • Tracy Cullens (voiced by Kathryn Hahn) – Chozen's college-aged sister. She had dreams of being an Olympic gymnast, now attends classes at Palm View University. She is the only character who calls her brother by his given name. Chozen moves in with her when he's released from prison. Tracy is disgusted and embarrassed by nearly everything her brother says and does, including making passes at male classmates, farting in public and masturbating while watching movies.
  • Troy (voiced by Nick Swardson) – A stereotypical gamer and nerd. Troy is a college student who gets picked on by other students. He wants to ask Tracy out but he can't summon the courage to do so and competes against Ricky for her attention. Crisco and Ricky offer to help him lose his virginity the same way Ricky did, with a legendary (now middle-aged) Hispanic prostitute.
  • Hunter (voiced by Ike Barinholtz) – An openly gay college student attending Palm View. He is Chozen's former lover. Hunter constantly pursues a real relationship while Chozen desires only sex, and avoids anything involving emotions and feelings. Hunter is gullible and naïve. He leaves Chozen in the episode "Boy's Night."
  • Idris "Phantasm" Florentine (voiced by Method Man) – The reigning top rapper of the hip-hop world. He is the target of Chozen's hostility. Phantasm was a former member of Chozen's crew until he got fed up with his clean image. He framed Chozen for his own illegal activities, sending Chozen to prison and sparking his own rise to the top.
  • Jameson Z. "Jimmy" Cromwell (voiced by Danny McBride) – A 39-year-old former roadie and pyrotechnics maker, now a member of Chozen's crew. A perverted, skinny metalhead. He has since embraced the digital realm and makes his own voyeurism videos for the Internet, such as cheerleader cleavage and panty shots and women's diving team accidents (which captures both the porn demographic and the fans of "epic fail" videos).

Other characters

[edit]
  • Jamal St. Clair (voiced by Gary Anthony Williams) – A black, gay inmate with a violent streak. Chozen's first lover. He was arrested by authorities for helping run Napster though he claims he also set a man on fire. A brutally sadistic man, he attempted to remove Chozen from his crew which escalated to a fight. Jamal redeems himself and saves Chozen from violating parole by attacking the cops. He was shot and killed by the police when escaping arrest. The black officer whose nose he broke was the one who fired first.
  • Brooklyn Chan – The Asian-American Sneakerhead who owns the store "Laced". Chan operates his business via his smartphone. He offered Chozen's crew a gig when he heard they ran with Phantasm. But Chozen and Jamal's fist fight resulted in his store being looted.

Episodes

[edit]
No.TitleWritten byOriginal release dateProd.
code		U.S. viewers
(millions)
1"Pilot"Grant DekernionJanuary 13, 2014 (2014-01-13)XXCZ010010.94[6]
An aspiring rapper tries to get his life back on track after being released from prison.
2"Love & Bottlerockets"Grant DekernionJanuary 20, 2014 (2014-01-20)XXCZ010020.69[7]
When Chozen suspects Tracy's boyfriend is cheating on her, he takes matters into his own hands.
3"Beef"Brian AshJanuary 27, 2014 (2014-01-27)XXCZ010030.61[8]
A surprising job offer reunites Chozen with an old enemy.
4"Da Director"Christian LanderFebruary 3, 2014 (2014-02-03)XXCZ010040.69[9]
Tracy and Chozen collaborate on a video while Ricky and Crisco attempt to get Troy laid.
5"Laced"Willie Block & Jake EmanuelFebruary 24, 2014 (2014-02-24)XXCZ010050.56[10]
An old flame from prison comes between Chozen and the band as they prepare to perform at an exclusive party.
6"I'm With the Contraband"Story by : Brian Ash & Michael Jonathan Smith
Teleplay by : Brian Ash		March 3, 2014 (2014-03-03)XXCZ010060.49[11]
Chozen launches an underground, anything goes bar at the university.
7"Family Weekend (or How Gary Got His Groove Back)"Shelby FeroMarch 10, 2014 (2014-03-10)XXCZ010070.61[12]
A campus visit turns into an unforgettable night for Chozen and Tracy's parents.
8"Boy's Night"Ryan ShirakiMarch 17, 2014 (2014-03-17)XXCZ010080.49[13]
Chozen and Hunter hit the hottest club in town, while Ricky and Crisco try to get exposure for their new song at a strip club, where Crisco reunites with a high school hottie with an embarrassing secret and Ricky becomes the sub to a brutal dominatrix.
9"In A Pickle"Mike RoweMarch 24, 2014 (2014-03-24)XXCZ010090.53[14]
Chozen and his crew are picked to be the newest cast members for a kids' show, but while Crisco and Ricky are enjoying the perks of being kiddie show stars, Chozen and Ricky stumble upon the show runner's sinister plot to keep Chozen from being a music star.
10"The Battle of Broken Spear"Christian LanderMarch 31, 2014 (2014-03-31)XXCZ010100.45[15]
At the summer's biggest music festival, Chozen confronts his past and goes head-to-head with Phantasm.
11"Sell, Sell, Sell"Michael Jonathan SmithUnairedXXCZ01011N/A
Back in the comfort of prison, Chozen confronts a new enemy.
12"Soul Patch"Brian AshUnairedXXCZ01012N/A
After an unfortunate series of events, Phantasm quits the rap game and finds love in a small town.
13"Scurry Stories"Christian LanderUnairedXXCZ01013N/A
Chozen and his crew go busting after a legendary ghost said to haunt campus.

Principal cast

[edit]

Additional voices

[edit]

International broadcast

[edit]

Chozen premiered in Australia on 5 January 2015 on The Comedy Channel.[16]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Chozen

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Chozen is an American adult animated sitcom created by Grant Dekernion that aired on FX from January 13 to March 31, 2014. The series centers on its titular protagonist, a gay white rapper named Chozen who, after serving a ten-year prison sentence for a drug charge he claims was a setup by a former associate, emerges determined to reclaim prominence in the hip-hop industry. Voiced by Bobby Moynihan with raps performed by Dekernion, the character navigates post-incarceration life while crashing on his sister's couch at a liberal arts college, surrounded by a crew including his manager Crisco and hype man Ricky. The show, produced with involvement from Danny McBride's Rough House Pictures, features explicit content including simulated sex, drug use, and profane language, satirizing elements of hip-hop culture and celebrity redemption arcs through crude humor and over-the-top scenarios. Despite drawing comparisons to FX's Archer in animation style and to Eastbound & Down in irreverent tone, Chozen received mixed critical reception, with a 29% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on reviews citing inconsistent humor and underdeveloped satire. FX ordered 13 episodes but aired only 10 before canceling the series on May 14, 2014, marking it as a short-lived entry in the network's animated lineup with no further seasons or notable awards.

Overview

Premise and format

Chozen centers on the titular , a gay white rapper named Chozen Bloodline, who emerges from prison after serving time for a drug charge falsely pinned on him by his rival Flawless. The series depicts his efforts to revive his music career amid challenges in the hip-hop industry, drawing on familial backing and direct clashes with adversaries. This narrative arc of personal redemption unfolds against a backdrop of episodic escapades involving Chozen's pursuit of authenticity in rap while navigating and betrayals. The program consists of a single 10-episode season, with each installment running approximately 22 minutes. Episodes aired on FXX from January 13 to March 31, 2014, combining standalone comedic scenarios with progression toward Chozen's overarching goal of reclaiming prominence in rap. As an adult animated sitcom, it features explicit profanity, sexual situations, simulated intercourse, partial nudity, and moderate violence, rendering it unsuitable for younger viewers and aligned with mature cable programming standards.

Visual style and production elements

![Promotional image showcasing the animated style of Chozen][float-right] The series features 2D animation produced by , employing a stylized approach with clean lines and exaggerated character proportions reminiscent of FX's Archer. This visual technique supports caricatured depictions of hip-hop figures, emphasizing bold expressions and dynamic poses in performance scenes. Production elements include a soundtrack centered on original rap compositions produced by creator Grant Dekernion, integrated into musical sequences and rap battles to drive narrative momentum. These songs, voiced alongside the main , parody hip-hop tropes while incorporating licensed tracks for industry realism. Visual gags, such as over-the-top animations in teaser campaigns blending styles, extend to episode content with fluid, comedic exaggerations during confrontations and fantasies.

Development

Conception and writing

Chozen was conceived by Grant Dekernion around as an animated comedy centering on a white, gay rapper navigating the hip-hop industry after release. The protagonist, framed by a rival, embodies an unapologetic outsider perspective on rap culture, drawing from Dekernion's background in music and observations of industry dynamics. This setup allowed for satire of hip-hop tropes, emphasizing themes of rivalry, ambition, and authenticity without prioritizing . Dekernion pitched the concept to FX following informal discussions with Rough House Pictures, securing approval in a single meeting by late 2012, when pilot production was slated to commence. FX greenlit a 13-episode series in June 2013, reflecting confidence in the script's potential for edgy humor akin to Archer. The pilot script, authored by Dekernion, finalized elements like the character's post-prison reintegration and family dynamics, setting a tone that blended crude, musical comedy with commentary on music industry materialism and inauthenticity. The writing process prioritized character depth over , portraying Chozen as a fully formed figure driven by personal redemption rather than explicit social critique. Influences included Dekernion's band experiences, informing arcs of collaboration and conflict, while avoiding heavy focus on homophobia to highlight broader industry excesses like rivalries and superficial success metrics. This approach aimed for unfiltered authenticity, using to expose hypocrisies in rap's emphasis on bravado and .

Casting and voice acting

Bobby Moynihan, known for his tenure on Saturday Night Live from 2008 to 2017, provided the voice for the protagonist Chozen, drawing on his improvisational comedy background and self-taught rapping skills influenced by artists like to deliver the character's rapid-fire rhymes and explicit lyrics. Moynihan's performance emphasized Chozen's bombastic energy and vulnerability, with recording sessions focusing on syncing vocal inflections to the animated sequences' hip-hop sequences. Michael Peña voiced Ricky, the manipulative music industry figure serving as Chozen's primary antagonist, infusing the role with a measured intensity derived from his dramatic film work in projects like Crash (2004) and (2013). Peña's casting contributed a layer of credible menace to the character's scheming dialogue, contrasting the show's comedic tone while handling profane exchanges central to the series' adult-oriented narrative. Kathryn Hahn portrayed Tracy, Chozen's sister, bringing a relatable, exasperated familial authenticity informed by her comedic roles in live-action series like (2015). Her voice work grounded the sibling interactions amid the show's explicit content, with Hahn recording lines that balanced and concern in pre-premiere sessions completed after the series order in June 2013. Method Man guest-starred as Phantasm, a hip-hop producer, voicing lines that included stereotypical industry tropes; he publicly defended the role against minor online criticisms, arguing it satirized rap culture without malice and aligned with his prior comedic appearances. Other recurring voices included Hannibal Buress as Crisco and Nick Swardson as Troy, selected for their stand-up timing to support the ensemble's profane, rhyme-heavy banter recorded in group sessions to capture improvisational chemistry before the January 13, 2014, premiere.

Characters

Protagonist and family

Phillip "Chozen" Cullens serves as the of the Chozen, depicted as a 28-year-old openly white rapper emerging from a ten-year sentence, rendering him out of touch with contemporary , pop culture, and the hip-hop industry. Charismatic yet deeply flawed, Chozen embodies resilience forged in incarceration, pursuing redemption through authentic that critiques industry superficiality and entitlement, contrasting his talent-driven ascent against rivals reliant on manufactured personas. His hardened demeanor, including habits like smoking, drinking, and sexual pursuits, stems from survival instincts, yet he channels a "new message" toward reclaiming hip-hop prominence via raw honesty rather than compromise. Chozen resides with his immediate family post-release, primarily his sister Tracy Cullens and her husband Ricky, who anchor his chaotic reentry into society by offering shelter and pragmatic counsel amid his ambitions. Tracy functions as a supportive yet grounded figure, providing emotional stability and occasional through her no-nonsense reactions to Chozen's excesses, while balancing her own domestic life. Ricky, as the brother-in-law, contributes to the household dynamic with laid-back involvement in Chozen's musical pursuits, often serving as a foil that highlights family tensions and loyalties in the narrative's core. This familial unit underscores themes of redemption, where personal ties offer a counterweight to Chozen's external struggles, emphasizing causal ties between talent, authenticity, and relational support over isolated entitlement in hip-hop recovery.

Supporting cast

Phantasm serves as the primary antagonist, a former bandmate and rival rapper who framed Chozen for drug possession charges to advance his own career, exemplifying the cutthroat gatekeeping and within the hip-hop industry. This act of sabotage sent Chozen to prison for a decade, fueling the series' central conflict as Chozen seeks retribution and reclaims his place in the rap world. Supporting allies include , a struggling rapper and longtime friend who rejoins Chozen's efforts to navigate the music scene, often highlighting the aimless dynamics of rap entourages through comedic incompetence. Ricky, another crew member, aids in these pursuits, contributing to satirical depictions of loyalty amid professional hustling and personal dysfunction. Minor figures expand the ensemble's diversity, such as Hunter, a frat-boy type serving as Chozen's casual sexual partner and occasional quest companion, parodying superficial in the rap . A female-to-male character appears in specific episodes as a muscular figure inspired by adult performer , integrated into arcs involving physical confrontations and identity exploration without dominating the narrative. These elements collectively critique the hip-hop world's inclusivity claims while advancing plotlines through exaggerated stereotypes.

Episodes

Episode list and summaries

Chozen aired ten episodes during its single season on FXX, from January 13 to March 31, 2014. The series builds from the protagonist's release from prison and efforts to revive his rap career, escalating through personal conflicts, industry challenges, and rivalries culminating in a festival confrontation.
No.TitleAir dateSynopsis
1PilotJanuary 13, 2014An aspiring rapper tries to get his life back on track after being released from prison.
2Love & BottlerocketsJanuary 20, 2014Chozen takes action when he suspects Tracy's boyfriend is cheating on her.
3BeefJanuary 27, 2014A surprising job offer reunites Chozen with an old enemy.
4Da DirectorFebruary 3, 2014Tracy and Chozen collaborate on a video while Ricky and Crisco attempt to get Troy laid.
5LacedFebruary 24, 2014An old flame comes between Chozen and the band as they prepare to perform at an exclusive party.
6I'm with the ContrabandMarch 3, 2014Chozen launches a criminal enterprise at the university.
7Family Weekend (or How Gary Got His Groove Back)March 10, 2014A campus visit turns into an unforgettable night for Chozen and Tracy's parents.
8Boy's NightMarch 17, 2014Chozen and Hunter hit the hottest club in town, while Ricky and Crisco try to get exposure for their new song.
9In a PickleMarch 24, 2014A big opportunity in children's television threatens the band's hip hop future.
10The Battle of Broken SpearMarch 31, 2014At the summer's biggest music festival, Chozen confronts his past and goes head-to-head with Phantasm.
Three additional episodes were produced but not broadcast: "Sell, Sell, Sell," in which Chozen confronts a new enemy back in prison; "," focusing on Phantasm quitting rap for love in a small town; and "Scurry Stories," involving a hunt on . These were included in the DVD release on December 16, 2014.

Broadcast history

Premiere and scheduling

Chozen on on January 13, 2014, airing at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT immediately following the season five premiere of Archer. The series, FXX's first original scripted program, was scheduled for Monday nights as part of the network's block. Thirteen episodes were ordered, but only ten were broadcast, with airings occurring weekly from January 13 through January 27, resuming February 3 after a brief hiatus, skipping mid-February dates likely due to the Winter Olympics coverage, and concluding on March 31. The premiere episode attracted 946,000 total viewers and earned a 0.6 rating in the adults 18–49 demographic, modest figures for a cable targeting a niche audience. Viewership declined in subsequent weeks, dropping about 30 percent for the second episode and continuing to erode, with the series finale drawing roughly half the premiere's audience. These ratings aligned with FXX's emerging position as a younger-skewing complement to , though they fell short of sustaining broader cable animation benchmarks.

Cancellation and aftermath

FX canceled Chozen on May 14, 2014, after its single 10-episode season concluded on March 31, 2014, with no renewal forthcoming. The network cited inadequate audience growth as the primary factor, despite broader efforts to expand programming. The series debuted on January 13, 2014, to 946,000 total viewers and a 0.6 rating in the adults 18-49 demographic, but viewership fell approximately 30% by the second episode and continued to decline thereafter. Method Man, who voiced the antagonist Phantasm, faced early criticism from some online commentators in the rap community questioning the authenticity of his involvement in a series featuring a gay white protagonist and themes challenging hip-hop norms. On January 13, 2014, coinciding with the premiere, he publicly rebuffed detractors on , asserting the project's value and dismissing unfounded attacks, which sparked brief discussion but failed to boost ratings or extend the show's life. The abrupt end left the narrative unresolved, with creator Grant Dekernion having crafted an unyielding depiction of industry struggles and personal redemption that prioritized artistic intent over broad commercial appeal, though no public statements from him directly addressed the cancellation's tension between vision and viability. Immediate fallout included minimal industry ripple, as FX shifted focus to established animation like Archer amid a landscape favoring proven performers over experimental entries.

Reception

Critical reviews

Chozen received mixed to negative reviews from critics, with an aggregate score of 29% on based on 17 reviews, reflecting complaints about its reliance on dated and cheap laughs. The Rotten Tomatoes critics' consensus described the series as "stereotypical, dated, and overly reliant on cheap laughs," deeming it provocative in a negative manner. On , it scored 44 out of 100 from 10 reviews, categorized as mixed or average, with patterns of feedback highlighting uneven humor and failure to innovate beyond rap clichés. Some reviewers praised elements of the voice acting and musical performances, particularly Bobby Moynihan's as the titular character, which added energy to otherwise lackluster episodes. The New York Times noted that the songs improved over the season, becoming more vivid, though initial efforts felt dull. However, these strengths were often overshadowed by criticisms of crassness and loutish elements that diluted any deeper insight into hip-hop industry issues like . The Los Angeles Times identified potential in the feud dynamics between Chozen and his rival but faulted the show for leaning into effeminate gay stereotypes for humor, undermining its attempts to break other conventions. A separate LA Times commentary argued that the series missed an opportunity to challenge hip-hop's resistance to equality, instead reinforcing genre limitations. Variety observed that while the premise of a gay white ex-con rapper aimed for edginess, the execution prioritized shock over consistent comedy across the first episodes. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette rated the pilot 1.5 out of 4, criticizing the unattractive portrayal of Chozen as a lazy slob that failed to engage.

Audience and fan perspectives

Chozen received an average user rating of 6.5 out of 10 on from 2,010 reviews, reflecting a generally positive reception among viewers who engaged with the series. Fans frequently commended the show's sharp targeting the excesses of rap , including themes of authenticity, betrayal, and commercialism within the hip-hop industry. Reviewers appreciated the integration of original rap tracks and musical sequences, which added layers of humor and cultural commentary without relying on overt moralizing. Viewer discussions emphasized the comedy arising from exaggerated prison life and rap industry tropes, such as rivalries and performative toughness, often citing episodes for their irreverent takes on identity politics and hypocrisy in entertainment. Supporters viewed the series as underappreciated for its willingness to challenge sensitivities around sexuality and race through character-driven narratives, portraying the protagonist's gay identity as integral to his resilience rather than a platform for advocacy. This approach fostered a niche following among audiences seeking unfiltered critiques of cultural norms in media. Certain viewers expressed discomfort with the show's reliance on stereotypes involving race, sexuality, and criminality, arguing it risked reinforcing rather than subverting them. However, defenders countered that such elements served a deliberate satirical purpose, prioritizing observational realism about subcultural dynamics over avoidance of offense, as evidenced by recurring praise for the "brave" premise in user feedback.

Awards and nominations

Chozen received no major awards or nominations from industry bodies such as the or . The series, which aired its single season from January 13 to April 7, 2014, on , did not secure recognition in categories for outstanding animated programming, writing, or despite its focus on and . Official records from the and the International Animated Film Society, ASIFA-Hollywood, confirm the absence of any entries for the program in their respective nomination lists for 2014. Any acclaim was limited to informal fan discussions and retrospective mentions in streaming contexts rather than formal accolades.

Themes and cultural analysis

Satire of hip-hop industry

Chozen critiques the hip-hop industry's glorification of violence and criminality by depicting Chozen Jacobs as a former whose pre-prison persona embodied tropes, including armed confrontations and boasts of street credibility, only for him to confront the personal costs upon release. This narrative arc underscores causal links between such cultural emphases and real-world outcomes, as Chozen's framing for by rival Flawless—motivated by industry competition—highlights how fabricated beefs escalate to life-altering consequences, paralleling documented rap feuds like the 1990s Notorious B.I.G.- rivalry that contributed to their deaths amid escalating threats and shootings. The series parodies and label exploitation through portrayals of executives prioritizing marketable personas over talent, with Flawless ascending via deceitful tactics that sideline authentic s like Chozen, reflecting empirical patterns where major labels amplify for sales, as evidenced by the industry's $15.7 billion revenue in 2013 driven partly by conflict-laden narratives. Chozen's merit-driven resurgence, reliant on raw lyrical skill rather than gimmicks, contrasts Flawless's reliance on stolen credibility, critiquing barriers to genuine merit in a system where, per industry analyses, ghostwriting and curation often underpin despite authenticity claims. Misogyny and materialism receive empirical spotlight via character behaviors, such as rappers' routine objectification of women as status symbols and obsessive pursuits of luxury goods, debunking narratives that normalize these as harmless bravado; episodes illustrate how such elements perpetuate exploitative dynamics, with female characters frequently reduced to props in male ego battles, aligning with broader data on hip-hop lyrics' high rates of misogynistic content—averaging over 60% in sampled gangsta rap tracks from the era. This portrayal privileges causal realism, showing how industry incentives foster these traits for commercial viability over substantive artistry.

Depictions of sexuality and identity

Chozen, the protagonist, is depicted as openly and unapologetically integrates his into his rap persona, referencing attractions to men in lyrics and casual without narrative emphasis on overcoming internal or external as a central plot driver. This approach contrasts with more didactic representations in media, prioritizing Chozen's and enjoyment of hookups—often shown in explicit, animated sequences—as extensions of his brash personality rather than vehicles for advocacy. Creator Grant Dekernion described the character as comfortable with "dudes with smooth skin," positioning his queerness as normalized within the show's crude hip-hop , though voice actor noted it avoids heavy-handed . The series includes unfiltered portrayals of and post-release encounters, such as Chozen's encounters with multiple male partners, emphasizing raw physicality over sanitized or romanticized narratives. These elements underscore a realism in male promiscuity, with tropes like "all are promiscuous" invoked through Chozen's rejection of and mockery of marriage, though critics argued this reinforced stereotypes rather than subverting hip-hop's homophobia. Some reviewers praised the non-standard depiction of a muscular, bear-like man as a departure from effeminate archetypes, hailing it as a "post-" character free from identity . Supporting characters include a female-to-male figure modeled after performer , portrayed in one episode as a buff, assertive individual involved in Chozen's social circle, which some viewers cited as a positive arc for avoiding victimhood tropes. However, broader critiques highlighted the show's reliance on the "white gay rapper" trope for laughs, with outlets like Salon faulting it for superficial engagement with industry homophobia and reducing queerness to gimmicky provocation aimed at straight audiences. The argued that while Chozen's pride offered potential to challenge genre norms, punchlines often targeted his orientation itself, missing opportunities for deeper equality critique. This divided reception reflected tensions between authentic expression and perceived , with proponents viewing the integration as satirical resistance to performative in rap.

Critiques of stereotypes and authenticity

Critics and commentators have praised Chozen for challenging hip-hop's longstanding exclusionary norms by centering a white, gay protagonist whose narrative arc prioritizes raw talent and lyrical merit over conformity to cultural gatekeeping, thereby sparking discussions on authenticity defined by skill rather than demographic insider status. The series' premise posits that success in rap can derive from genuine ability irrespective of race or sexuality, as evidenced by Chozen's post-prison quest to reclaim his artistry through uncompromised bars and beats, which some view as a satirical jab at industry barriers that privilege "street cred" over innovation. Conversely, the show has faced accusations of reinforcing of and white rappers, with detractors arguing that its humor often tips into by leaning on clichéd effeminate traits, crude sexual innuendos, and outsider tropes that hip-hop's excesses without sufficiently subverting them. Reviews highlight an uneven execution where attempts at provocation falter into reliance on dated humor and anatomical gags, potentially perpetuating rather than dismantling biases within the genre's representation of non-traditional figures. Audience reception reflects this divide, with some fans defending the series' unfiltered, politically unconcerned authenticity as a merit-based antidote to overly sanitized media portrayals, valuing its crude edge for mirroring hip-hop's own brash realism. However, user reviews and critical consensus indicate broader dissatisfaction, citing overdependence on obvious stereotype-driven jokes—such as those tied to race, sexuality, and body functions—that limit depth, evidenced by the show's single-season run amid middling ratings and calls for more nuanced exploration of cultural dynamics.

Legacy and availability

Cultural impact

Chozen, which aired its sole season on from January 13 to March 14, 2014, exerted limited influence beyond niche audiences in , functioning primarily as a artifact rather than a transformative force in media discourse. Its satirical lens on hip-hop inauthenticity—exemplified by the protagonist's rivalry with a ghostwriting-dependent rival—highlighted persistent industry issues like fabricated personas, but failed to catalyze measurable shifts in genre representation or production practices. Critics observed that while the series attempted to counter mainstream hip-hop's glorification of and bravado through exaggerated tropes, its execution often prioritized crude humor over substantive critique, constraining broader cultural resonance. The show's depiction of a gay white rapper navigating homophobia sparked targeted conversations on LGBTQ+ visibility in rap, a genre historically resistant to open queerness, yet these discussions remained marginal and were frequently dismissed as reliant on dated rather than advancing authenticity debates. Academic analyses have drawn parallels between Chozen and earlier works like The Boondocks, positioning it within a lineage of animated satires probing hip-hop's anxieties over and same-sex desire, though without evidence of inspiring subsequent series or revivals in edgier post-2014 hip-hop animations. Public reactions, including rapper Method Man's commentary, reflected speculation on potential cultural ripples but underscored the series' failure to deeply penetrate hip-hop conversations. Overall, Chozen's legacy manifests in sporadic online retrospectives rather than verifiable metrics of influence, such as viewership-driven renewals or cited inspirations in later media.

Streaming and home media

Chozen became available for digital purchase following its initial broadcast on in 2014, with episodes offered on platforms including , Apple TV, and Fandango at Home (formerly Vudu). These options allow users to buy individual episodes or the full season, typically at prices ranging from $1.99 per episode to around $19.99 for the complete set, though no subscription-based free streaming services currently host the series as of October 2025. The series received a manufactured-on-demand (MOD) DVD release of Chozen: The Complete Season 1 on December 16, 2014, distributed by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment. This two-disc set contains all 13 episodes in standard definition, without additional features like commentaries or deleted scenes, and remains available through retailers such as Amazon and . No Blu-ray edition or subsequent physical remasters have been issued. Digital purchase options persist without interruption, enabling episodic or seasonal downloads compatible with various devices. International availability is limited and region-dependent, often requiring VPN access or local equivalents for non-U.S. users, with primary focus on North American markets. No revivals, 4K upgrades, or expanded home media formats have emerged by 2025.

References

  1. https://www.thefutoncritic.com/showatch/chozen/listings/
  2. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3221268/plotsummary/
  3. https://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/13/arts/television/chozen-an-animated-series-on-fx-features-bobby-moynihan.html
  4. https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/tv/showtracker/la-et-st-chozen-review-20140113-story.html
  5. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/danny-mcbride-produced-animated-comedy-563692/
  6. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/chozen/s01
  7. https://www.ebony.com/chozen-tries-to-be-relevant-and-funny-but-fails-981/
  8. https://deadline.com/2014/05/fxxs-legit-fxs-chozen-cancelled-730594/
  9. https://www.ismyshowcancelled.com/article/2014-05-14/fx-cancels-chozen/2/
  10. https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/chozen
  11. https://www.justwatch.com/us/tv-show/chozen/season-1
  12. https://www.tvmaze.com/shows/4337/chozen
  13. http://www.thefutoncritic.com/showatch/chozen/
  14. https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/tv/fxs-chozen-a-bear-on-the-loose-steps-into-a-trap-of-bad-humor/2014/01/12/7fe5feca-7af3-11e3-af7f-13bf0e9965f6_story.html
  15. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3221268/reviews/
  16. https://www.awn.com/animationworld/grant-dekernion-talks-chozen
  17. https://www.awn.com/news/roger-hypes-visual-gags-teaser-campaign-fx-s-chozen
  18. https://slate.com/human-interest/2014/01/chozen-on-fx-a-conversation-with-creator-grant-dekernion.html
  19. https://archive.thinkprogress.org/chozens-grant-dekernion-and-tom-brady-on-hip-hop-homophobia-and-learning-to-mc-d04725dee617/
  20. https://www.tvmegasite.net/prime/reviews/2013/chozen.shtml
  21. https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-news/chozen-star-bobby-moynihans-youtube-rap-discovery-40811/
  22. https://www.dailyactor.com/interview/bobby-moynihan-interview-chozen-snl/
  23. https://www.tvline.com/interviews/bobby-moynihan-saturday-night-live-secrets-fx-chozen-484827/
  24. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3221268/fullcredits/
  25. https://deadline.com/2013/06/fxx-orders-first-original-series-danny-mcbrides-animated-comedy-chozen-514530/
  26. https://www.cleveland.com/tv-blog/2014/01/kathryn_hahn_providing_one_of_the_voices_for_fxs_animated_chozen.html
  27. https://www.bet.com/article/q5d8j6/method-man-defends-role-on-chozen
  28. https://mediamikes.com/2014/01/bobby-moynihan-and-method-man-talk-about-fxs-new-comedy-chozen/
  29. https://thecomicscomic.com/2013/06/07/chozen-is-chosen-as-fxxs-first-new-sitcom-animated-series-debuts-2014/
  30. https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/tv-shows/Chozen/
  31. https://lostmediawiki.com/Chozen_%28found_FXX_animated_sitcom%3B_2014%29
  32. https://www.cbr.com/nycc-chozen-creator-and-cast-rap-about-fxxs-animated-comedy/
  33. https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/WesternAnimation/Chozen
  34. https://chozen.fandom.com/wiki/Tracy
  35. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3221268/
  36. https://www.morningjournal.com/2014/01/13/chozen-a-hip-hop-satire-slips-and-falls/
  37. https://dominicanstar.com/feature-articles/january-2014/cartooncomedy-show-chozen-chooses-to-be-funny-sometimes/
  38. https://slate.com/human-interest/2014/03/chozen-on-fx-the-lewd-crude-cartoon-about-a-gay-rapper-deserves-a-second-season.html
  39. https://www.purefilmcreative.com/killough-chronicles/chozen-please-give-a-hearty-welcome-to-the-first-truly-post-gay-character.html
  40. https://epguides.com/Chozen/
  41. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1
  42. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/1
  43. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/2
  44. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/3
  45. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/4
  46. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/5
  47. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/6
  48. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/7
  49. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/8
  50. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/9
  51. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/10
  52. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/11
  53. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/12
  54. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/60697-chozen/season/1/episode/13
  55. https://www.spoilertv.com/2013/11/fx-winter-2013-schedule-press-release.html
  56. http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2013/06/06/fxx-has-chozen-its-first-original-series-842312/20130606fx02/
  57. https://tvseriesfinale.com/tv-show/chozen-no-season-two-for-fx-animated-series-32576/
  58. https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/tv/2014/01/23/nielsen-weekly-tv-ratings-highlights/4681163/
  59. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/legit-chozen-canceled-at-fx-704220/
  60. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/fxs-john-landgraf-industry-tug-670814/
  61. https://www.metacritic.com/tv/chozen/
  62. https://variety.com/2014/tv/reviews/chozen-tv-review-fx-1201031958/
  63. https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/posts/la-et-ms-chozen-misses-opportunity-to-game-change-20140113-story.html
  64. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/chozen/s01/reviews
  65. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3221268/reviews?
  66. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3221268/awards/
  67. https://annieawards.org/
  68. https://www.nydailynews.com/2014/01/14/method-man-raps-on-role-in-fxs-new-animated-sitcom-chozen/
  69. https://ojs.meccsa.org.uk/index.php/netknow/article/download/517/337/1164
  70. https://www.bubbleblabber.com/2014/02/review-chozen-da-director/
  71. https://www.tvguide.com/news/chozen-bobby-moynihan-1075921/
  72. https://readingatrecess.com/2014/01/30/chozen-eastbound-and-down/
  73. https://www.salon.com/2014/01/08/chozens_weak_take_on_homophobia_in_hip_hop/
  74. https://www.avclub.com/chozen-is-the-new-gay-show-for-straight-people-1798179135
  75. https://www.hollywood.com/tv/chozen-gay-white-rapper-hip-hop-57360974
  76. https://www.denverpost.com/2014/01/13/chozen-a-hip-hop-satire-slips-and-falls/
  77. https://theurbandaily.com/2810627/rapper-method-man-sounds-off-on-twitter-about-chozen-and-a/
  78. https://www.justwatch.com/us/tv-show/chozen
  79. https://www.amazon.com/Chozen-Season-1/dp/B00HUFWBNC
  80. https://www.amazon.com/Chozen-Complete-Season-Bobby-Moynihan/dp/B00QTEPNLC
  81. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Chozen-The-Complete-Season-1-DVD-Fox-Mod-Comedy/42581600
  82. https://www.blu-ray.com/Chozen/734893/
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