Daniel Ezra and Da’Vinchi Return to South Crenshaw in New Episode of All American

Fans of All American are in for a major treat! Two of the show’s original stars, Daniel Ezra (Spencer James) and Da’Vinchi (Darnell Hayes), are making their long-awaited return in tonight’s brand-new episode, “Shadowboxin'” airing at 8 PM ET/PT on The CW.

Not only do Ezra and Da’Vinchi reprise their iconic roles, but Ezra also steps behind the camera as the episode’s director, bringing a fresh creative vision to the beloved series.

A Nostalgic Reunion with New Challenges

The episode sees Spencer and Darnell returning to Los Angeles, eager for a night of club-hopping and catching up. However, their plans take an unexpected turn when they realize that tensions between South Crenshaw High and Beverly Hills High football players and their coaches are threatening to spiral out of control.

Determined to put an end to the brewing rivalry, Spencer and Darnell step in to ease the tension, particularly between Cassius Jeremy (Osy Ikhile) and Jordan Baker (Michael Evans Behling). The feud has already started to affect younger players Khalil (Antonio J. Bell) and KJ (Nathaniel McIntyre), making it clear that action needs to be taken before things get worse.

Meanwhile, Coop (Bre-Z) faces haunting memories from her past, finding comfort in Spencer’s presence and support. Khalil also receives much-needed guidance from Spencer, Jordan, and others, while Cassius shares some powerful words of wisdom that may help Spencer as he faces the next chapter of his life.

Daniel Ezra’s Big Return On and Off the Screen

Ezra’s return is particularly exciting for fans, as he originally stepped away from his lead role at the end of Season 6. His transition from series regular to guest star has been bittersweet, but his involvement behind the scenes as a director ensures that Spencer James’ influence remains a key part of All American’s ongoing story.

The episode, written by Adrian Dukes, is expected to deliver a mix of heartfelt nostalgia, high-energy football drama, and the emotional depth that has made All American such a fan-favorite.

Season 7 Brings a New Generation and Familiar Faces

This season of All American is all about bridging the past and the future. While longtime viewers get to see some of their favorite OG characters return, the series is also introducing new faces and fresh storylines that continue to push the narrative forward.

New series regulars for Season 7 include:

• Osy Ikhile as Beverly High’s new football coach Cassius Jeremy
• Nathaniel McIntyre as his son Kingston “KJ” Jeremy
• Antonio J. Bell as Khalil
• Alexis Chikaeze as Amina Simms

Returning series regulars include Michael Evans Behling, Greta Onieogou, and Bre-Z, while additional recurring stars Kareem Grimes and Elijah M. Cooper continue to add depth to the expanding universe of All American.

What to Expect Moving Forward

With Season 7 taking us back to the show’s roots South Crenshaw High and Beverly Hills High, viewers can expect:

• The same high-stakes NFL dreams
• The same crosstown rivalry
• The same messy relationships and drama
• But now, with our OG crew navigating adulthood while guiding the next generation

Spencer, Jordan, and the rest of the All American veterans are no longer just the ambitious high school players they once were. Now, they find themselves stepping into mentorship roles, helping younger athletes navigate the challenges they once faced.

Don’t Miss “Shadowboxin’” Tonight

It’s a can’t-miss episode as Spencer and Darnell return to shake things up, and fans will love seeing their dynamic back in action. Be sure to tune in to All American tonight at 8/7c on The CW, and if you miss it, catch up the next day on The CW’s website and app.

For a sneak peek at what’s in store, check out the official promo below.

Are you excited for Spencer and Darnell’s return? Let us know your thoughts after the episode airs!