"CHiPS" is an action-drama television series centered around the day-to-day lives and adventures of two California Highway Patrol motorcycle officers, Frank 'Ponch' Poncherello and Jon Baker. Typical elements of the genre present in the show include high-speed motorcycle chases, law enforcement scenarios, crime-fighting, and the camaraderie between partners on duty. What makes "CHiPS" stand out from other action titles is its unique focus on highway patrol officers rather than traditional police detectives or soldiers, bringing a lighter, sometimes comedic tone blended with action, as well as its iconic setting on the freeways of Los Angeles, which provides a dynamic backdrop for the characters' exploits.
Main Cast of CHiPs
Michael Peña
Frank 'Ponch' Poncherello
In the movie 'CHiPS' (2017), Michael Peña plays Jonathan Tull, a laid-back and experienced California Highway Patrol officer who partners with rookie officer Jon Baker, played by Dax Shepard. Peña's role is integral as the seasoned counterpart who balances the film's comedic and action elements with a grounded, affable presence. This role fits into Peña's career as another example of his versatility in blending humor and drama, following his performances in films like '
Ant-Man' and '
Crash.' What made his performance in 'CHiPS' stand out compared to his earlier work was his embrace of broad comedy within a buddy-cop action framework, showcasing his ability to anchor lighthearted, mainstream entertainment while maintaining relatable character depth.
Dax Shepard
Jon Baker
Dax Shepard starred as Officer Jon Baker in the 2017 action-comedy film 'CHiPS,' which is a modern adaptation of the 1970s television series about two California Highway Patrol officers. Shepard's performance was well-received for its blend of humor and action, bringing a grounded yet charismatic presence to the role. What made his performance unique was his natural comedic timing combined with a personal dedication to portraying the camaraderie and dynamics of law enforcement officers authentically. A lesser-known behind-the-scenes fact is that Shepard has a genuine interest in law enforcement and often took inspiration from real CHP officers to prepare for his role, even undergoing some ride-alongs during filming to capture the nuances of the job.
Jessica McNamee
Lindsey Taylor
Jessica McNamee starred in the 2017 movie 'CHiPS,' a comedic action film inspired by the popular TV series. She played the character Officer Karen Reed, bringing a fresh and dynamic energy to the role. McNamee's performance was praised for balancing humor with strength, making her standout in a predominantly male cast. What made her portrayal unique was her ability to blend comedic timing with a genuine sense of camaraderie, adding depth to the team dynamic. A lesser-known fact about her involvement is that she performed many of her own stunts, showcasing her dedication to authentically capturing the action-packed spirit of the movie.
Rosa Salazar
Ava
In the movie 'CHiPS,' Rosa Salazar delivers a charismatic and energetic performance as Ava, bringing a fresh and engaging dynamic to the action-comedy. Her portrayal stands out due to her blend of wit and vulnerability, differing from her intense and dramatic roles in films like '
Alita: Battle Angel,' where she embodies a cyborg heroine with profound depth and physicality. This contrast showcases Salazar's versatility as an actress, effortlessly shifting between lighthearted charm and complex emotional narratives. A trivia fact about Salazar is that before her breakthrough roles, she was discovered in an open casting call, highlighting her journey from obscurity to prominence in Hollywood.
Adam Brody
Clay Allen
In 'CHiPS', Adam Brody delivers a charming and comedic performance as Clay Allen, a rookie California Highway Patrol officer whose earnestness and wit bring a refreshing energy to the film. Unlike his often brooding or romantic roles in series like '
The O.C.', Brody embraces a lighter, more humorous character, showcasing his versatility in blending action with comedy. A trivia fact about Brody is that he initially gained fame with his role as Seth Cohen on 'The O.C.', where his portrayal was instrumental in shaping the show's cult following.
Crew of CHiPs
Full backstage crew list →