Full Breakdown
LaRoyce Hawkins' Exit Marks a Turning Point for Chicago P.D.
7/3/2026, 1:26:16 AM
Core Event: Hawkins to Leave as Series Regular in Season 14
NBC’s “Chicago P.D.” will lose cast member LaRoyce Hawkins as a series regular in Season 14. He will appear in the first few episodes to wrap up Officer Kevin Atwater’s arc before exiting. The departure is slated for early in the season, which premieres Oct 7, 2026.
Background & Context: Atwater’s Tenure and Recent Storylines
Hawkins debuted as Atwater in the 2014 premiere and stayed a cast member for 13 seasons, appearing in “One Chicago” crossovers. In Season 13 he reunited with Officer Tasha Fox (Karen Obilom); she later returns pregnant, prompting speculation that Atwater may move to Miami.
Timeline of Key Milestones
- 2014: Series launch; Hawkins cast as Atwater.
- 2022: Jesse Lee Soffer exits.
- 2024: Tracy Spiridakos exits.
- July 2, 2026: Exit reported.
- Oct 7, 2026: Season 14 premieres.
Data & Statistics: Cast Turnover and Renewals
Hawkins is one of five cast members; after his exit four (Jason Beghe, Patrick John Flueger, Marina Squerciati, Amy Morton) remain. Since Season 3 the show has lost at least one regular per season. NBC renewed all three “One Chicago” dramas—Chicago Fire (S15), Chicago P.D. (S14), Chicago Med (S12)—highlighting the franchise’s ratings strength.
Official Statements & Responses
Wolf Entertainment declined comment on the new “Black cop who is an agent of chaos.” NBC and the producers have not disclosed Atwater’s exit details. Variety and Deadline confirmed the departure, noting the storyline remains under wraps.
Criticism & Opposition: Fan Reaction
Fans posted “Say it’s not true, what i just read!!!” and “I’m heartbroken.” One comment read, “This man is so FINE!!! If he ain’t on PD I ain’t watching,” reflecting disappointment.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some sources say Atwater will move to Miami with Tasha, matching Season 13 events; others stress the exit is “under wraps” with no confirmed plot. Reports also differ on whether Atwater appears in two or three episodes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I've had some great roles over time and I've been able to learn from all of them in different ways,” Hawkins said, “but the longevity and the consistency that I've been able to create with learning from Kevin Atwater has really strengthened my confidence more than anything.” — LaRoyce Hawkins, Actor
- “The nature of the role being a first responder, being the only Black cop in the unit, it's a combination of so many things that, honestly, really contributes to feeling very confident and grateful in my skillset over time,” — LaRoyce Hawkins
- “I think the longevity on this show has allowed me just the time and the space to just learn and grow. And I feel so much more confident and comfortable on camera now.” — LaRoyce Hawkins
- “It was amazing,” Hawkins responded, noting that it was “almost like prayers had been answered.” — LaRoyce Hawkins
What's Next: New Casting and Outlook
Producers are casting the “agent of chaos” role, indicating a tonal shift for the Intelligence Unit. Season 14 premieres Oct 7, delivering Atwater’s farewell and setting up the next phase of the “One Chicago” franchise.
