‘Chicago P.D.’ Fans Prepare for LaRoyce Hawkins’ Atwater Farewell on October 14

Long-running procedurals often experience cast changes over the years, but some departures significantly impact the show’s overall vibe. LaRoyce Hawkins’ exit from ‘Chicago P.D.’ is one such change. Since the series debuted in 2014, Hawkins has portrayed Officer Kevin Atwater, making him one of the longest-serving members of the One Chicago franchise.

Throughout his time on the show, Atwater evolved from a uniformed patrol officer to a highly respected detective within the Intelligence unit. Hawkins also appeared in crossover episodes with ‘Chicago Fire’ and ‘Chicago Med’, establishing Atwater as a familiar presence across NBC’s Wednesday night lineup.

The date for Hawkins’ farewell has been confirmed. His final episode will air on Wednesday, October 14, with NBC releasing a preview that hints at how Atwater will bid farewell. The episode, titled “Don’t Blink,” focuses on a pivotal moment in Atwater’s life that prompts him to contemplate his future.

The preview suggests a hopeful conclusion, featuring Atwater at home with his baby. He reflects on his 14 years at the 21st District while expressing a desire for something new. Sergeant Voight, portrayed by Jason Beghe, reassures him that he and his son deserve that opportunity.

This storyline was set up in the season premiere, where Atwater received a call to rush to the hospital for Tasha Fox’s labor. This follows a romantic arc from last season, where Atwater rekindled a relationship with Officer Tasha Fox, played by Karen Obilom, leading to the surprise news of her pregnancy.

Showrunner Gwen Sigan has stated that the producers aimed for Atwater’s exit to feel like a personal choice. She described the departure as a positive and optimistic decision made by the character. Former cast member Jesse Lee Soffer, who left the show in Season 10, will return to direct the farewell episode.

Behind the scenes, Hawkins’ send-off has already taken place. On August 14, a post from the CineCares Foundation at Cinespace Chicago Film Studios celebrated Hawkins after he completed filming his last episode. The news of his exit was first reported in early July, with Variety confirming it and Deadline being the first to break the story.

This departure is part of a larger shift within the Intelligence unit. Hawkins’ decision follows the recent exits of Jesse Lee Soffer and Tracy Spiridakos, and the show is reportedly looking to cast a new series regular. Although not officially confirmed, it is anticipated that Karen Obilom may also leave around the time of Hawkins’ final episode.

Hawkins has plenty of projects lined up after this. His credits outside the NBC franchise include Marvel’s ‘Ironheart’, ‘Power Book IV: Force’, and ‘Ballers’. All three One Chicago shows returned on October 7, with ‘Chicago P.D.’ kicking off its 14th season, ‘Chicago Fire’ its 15th, and ‘Chicago Med’ its 12th.

For fans, the upcoming days are about saying goodbye to a character who has been a cornerstone of the series for so long. If the preview is any indication, Atwater’s story will conclude on a warm note rather than a tragic one, which is a rarity for the Intelligence unit. Be sure to have tissues ready on Wednesday.