Kevin Atwater Leaving ‘Chicago P.D.’ Is Now Confirmed and It Changes Everything

Kevin Atwater’s departure from ‘Chicago P.D.’ is no longer just a concern for fans; it has been confirmed as a reality. After thirteen seasons, original cast member LaRoyce Hawkins is stepping down from his role as a series regular, according to Deadline and its sources.

Initially, the speculation surrounding Atwater’s exit was just that—speculation. Fans became anxious when he was absent from an entire episode, but there was no solid evidence of his departure at that time. Now that the news is official, the exit of a character who has been a steadfast officer in Voight’s Intelligence Unit since the series began has become one of the most discussed topics in the show’s community.

Hawkins first debuted as Atwater in the series premiere in 2014 and has remained a beloved character throughout the show’s thirteen seasons. Notably, he was the only Chicago area actor in the original cast, making this exit feel more significant than a typical casting change.

The reasons behind Hawkins’ decision to leave have not been publicly explained. The show has yet to provide an official statement regarding his exit, and there is currently no information on why he will not be returning as a full-time character. However, it has been confirmed that the series is in the process of casting a new series regular, a Black cop who will introduce an element of chaos.

Hawkins is not the first major cast member to depart; he joins fellow actors Jesse Lee Soffer and Tracy Spiridakos, who have also recently left the series. This leaves him as one of the few original cast members still part of the show.

Fortunately, this will not be a sudden exit. TVLine reported that Hawkins will exit in Season 14, with plans to return to conclude his character’s storyline before officially leaving. This farewell arc is expected to unfold over the first few episodes of the new season.

The timing is crucial, as the new season is already approaching. Season 14 is set to premiere on Wednesday, October 7, airing on Wednesday nights at 10 p.m. Viewers are eager to see how the writers will manage the departure of one of the franchise’s longest-running characters.

Cast changes are not new to this franchise. Toya Turner left after one season as Officer Kiana Cook, while Arienne Mandi joined as Officer Eva Imani ahead of Season 13. However, losing a founding member feels different than simply swapping out a newer face.

The groundwork for Atwater’s exit was laid in the previous season. He reconnected with Officer Tasha Fox, an old friend from the police academy, during a case involving a bombing at a downtown Chicago office building. Played by Karen Obilom, Fox quickly developed a romantic relationship with Atwater.

Fox encouraged him to think beyond the city he has always known, challenging his selfless nature and inviting him to join her in Miami. Then, a twist emerged.

Tasha revealed that she is expecting a child, and Atwater is the father, which thrilled him and opened the door to the possibility of moving to Miami together.

This storyline has fans speculating about Atwater’s future. One popular theory suggests he may relocate to Miami to raise his child with Tasha. TVLine hinted that this exit could signify his journey to follow his heart and start a family. However, nothing has been confirmed, making it more of a reasonable guess than a spoiler.

Atwater’s departure could have significant implications for the show. One reviewer noted that this is more than just a cast change; Atwater has broadened the series’ perspective on important issues surrounding law enforcement. The review also emphasizes that Hawkins, being an Illinois native, has always added depth to the character.

Fans are hoping for a thoughtful conclusion to his storyline. One outlet expressed the desire that the show will not kill him off, leaving the door open for future cameos. After all Atwater has endured, a hopeful send-off in Miami would feel deserved.

Regardless of the direction the writers take, the Intelligence Unit will undoubtedly feel different without him. Will Atwater embrace the quiet family life he has been seeking with Tasha, or does ‘Chicago P.D.’ owe him one last case that showcases why he was the heart of Voight’s team?