Interview: Mekai Curtis Teases Kanan’s Darkest Evolution Yet in Power Book III: Raising Kanan Season 5

The countdown to Power Book III: Raising Kanan Season 5 is officially on, and if fans thought Kanan Stark had already crossed every line imaginable, star Mekai Curtis has a message: whew, think again. During our interview, Curtis opened up about the highly anticipated final season of Raising Kanan, offering insight into Kanan’s mindset as the long-brewing conflict between him and his mother, Raquel “Raq” Thomas, reaches its breaking point. And while viewers may be preparing for a more ruthless version of the future kingpin, Curtis suggests there’s much more happening beneath the surface.

The Season 5 trailer features Kanan declaring, “If you didn’t hate me before, you’re going to hate me now,” a line that immediately sparked conversation among fans. But according to Curtis, Kanan’s journey isn’t about becoming violent simply for the sake of it.

Instead, he describes a young man determined to protect the identity he has fought to build after years of lies, betrayal, and painful revelations. “What people are gonna get to experience from Kanan in Season 5 is more so him just doubling down on his own decisions,” Curtis explained.

That perspective adds another layer to a character who has spent four seasons trying to figure out where he fits within a world that constantly shifts beneath him. As Kanan searches for answers, his choices continue to create tension with those closest to him, especially Raq.

And yes, the mother-son battle that fans have been waiting for appears ready to deliver. Curtis spoke candidly about the complicated emotional wounds driving both characters. From his perspective, Kanan and Raq remain remarkably similar despite their ongoing feud. Neither is particularly interested in talking through their problems. Both prefer action. The problem is that their attempts to fix things often create even bigger fractures.

As for how Season 5 connects to the future of the Power Universe, Curtis hinted that viewers will finally see the clearest bridge yet between the teenager audiences have followed since Season 1 and the dangerous man fans first met in Power.

According to the actor, the final season serves as a payoff for years of storytelling, answering lingering questions while showing how every major relationship and life lesson shaped Kanan’s future.

“It’s the love letter to the first four seasons,” Curtis said.

That should be music to longtime viewers’ ears. One of Raising Kanan’s biggest strengths has always been its patience. The series has taken its time building Kanan’s transformation rather than rushing him toward the version audiences already know.

Season 5 appears ready to cash in on that investment. If Curtis’ comments are any indication, fans should expect difficult choices, fractured relationships, and some hard truths as the story moves toward its conclusion. More importantly, viewers may finally understand how Kanan Stark became one of the most unforgettable figures in the Power franchise.

For fans searching for clues about Power Book III: Raising Kanan Season 5, Curtis’ preview offers plenty to unpack. The war with Raq may be inevitable, but the emotional fallout could be what leaves the biggest mark when all is said and done.

Check out our full interview below: