For a decade, Chicago P.D. fans have watched Officer Kevin Atwater grow from a rookie into one of the Intelligence Unit's most trusted members. Now, that journey is coming to an end. LaRoyce Hawkins, who has portrayed Atwater in over 260 episodes since the show's 2014 debut, is set to exit the series during its upcoming 14th season.
According to sources, Hawkins will appear in several episodes of Season 14 to give his character a proper send-off, allowing the writers to close out Atwater's story before he leaves the show for good. While the exact circumstances of his departure remain under wraps, the news marks a significant shift for the long-running NBC drama.
Hawkins' exit leaves Jason Beghe's Hank Voight as the last remaining original cast member still on the show. Beghe, who has anchored the series since its inception, is confirmed to return for Season 14. Voight has also made crossover appearances on Law & Order: SVU and other One Chicago shows, but the loss of Atwater will undoubtedly change the dynamic of the Intelligence Unit.
The One Chicago universe—which includes Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire, and Chicago Med—has been a ratings powerhouse for NBC, thanks in large part to its interconnected storytelling. Creator Derek Haas, who recently moved on to Prime Video's short-lived Countdown starring Jensen Ackles, built a world where characters from each show regularly cross over to help solve medical crises, fight fires, or stop crime. For fans who love that shared universe, Why FBI Is the Perfect One Chicago Replacement You Need to Watch offers another procedural with similar crossover appeal.
NBC announced last week that all three One Chicago shows will return on October 7. Chicago Med kicks off the night at 8 p.m., followed by Chicago Fire at 9 p.m., and Chicago P.D. at 10 p.m. New episodes will air on NBC and stream the next day on Peacock. The network has not yet confirmed the fate of the franchise beyond this season, but given its enduring popularity, cancellation seems unlikely.
Hawkins' departure is a bittersweet moment for the show's loyal fanbase. Atwater has been a fan favorite for his integrity, loyalty, and the quiet strength he brought to the squad. His exit will leave a void that won't be easy to fill, but it also opens the door for new characters and storylines in Season 14.
As the One Chicago universe continues to evolve, viewers can expect more twists, turns, and emotional goodbyes. For now, we'll savor every last moment with Officer Kevin Atwater.
