For over a decade, LaRoyce Hawkins has been a cornerstone of NBC's Chicago P.D. as Officer Kevin Atwater. With the police procedural recently securing an early renewal for its 14th season, the actor is reflecting on what makes his long-running role so uniquely meaningful.
During a recent fan convention appearance with fellow One Chicago stars, Hawkins was asked about the legacy of working on such an iconic network series. While acknowledging the honor, he pinpointed a deeper, more personal reward that continues to resonate with him after all these years.
The Power of Being a 'Teacher' on Screen
"I remember being a huge TV fan as a kid," Hawkins shared. "You learn so much from the characters you watch, and you never imagine that one day you might be one of those characters on screen that another young person learns from. That's the part that, for me, hits the most."
For Hawkins, the role is profoundly personal. He portrays not just any officer, but a Black cop from Harvey, Illinois—his actual hometown. He sees Atwater as an honorable yet deeply human figure, a character with integrity who isn't perfect but strives to do right, especially while looking out for his younger siblings.
Adding 'Balance' to the Narrative
"I get to represent a character with integrity who isn't perfect," Hawkins explained to fans. "You watch these redeeming qualities, and if people are paying attention, they can learn. I go to work every day not just to act, but to add balance in a way that I know NBC as a network has always offered us as a culture."
He expressed immense gratitude for the consistent platform, stating his goal is to "make some things make sense for people who didn't understand" through his portrayal. "I'm just grateful for the opportunity to be able to do that at a high level and with this much consistency," he said. "I don't think there's anything better than that, for real."
This reflection comes as the entire One Chicago franchise is locked in for the future, with Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire, and Chicago Med all receiving early renewals. The franchise remains a ratings powerhouse for NBC, which is approaching its 100th anniversary in 2026.
The series continues to deliver high-stakes, character-driven stories, recently featuring a major crossover event that brought back familiar faces for a dramatic storyline. This longevity and fan devotion underscore the very legacy Hawkins cherishes—the chance to be part of a television institution that both entertains and, in his eyes, educates.
As Hawkins and the rest of the 21st District prepare to return, the actor's heartfelt perspective offers a powerful reminder of the impact television characters can have, shaping how audiences see the world and themselves, one episode at a time.
