Character exits are nothing new to the Chicago P.D. universe. Over the years, we’ve watched beloved officers like Detective Erin Lindsay, Detective Alvin Olinsky, and Officer Vanessa Rojas leave the 21st District—some tragically, others mysteriously. Now, speculation is swirling around several current members of the team, and fans are starting to piece together clues that could point to a major cast shake-up. At the top of the list is Officer Kevin Atwater, played by LaRoyce Hawkins, whose character has been through hell and back across the last few seasons. From confronting systemic racism within the force to risking his life in undercover operations, Atwater has stood out as the moral backbone of the squad. But this season, his growing disillusionment with the system he works in—and the subtle hints at wanting something “more” from life—could be laying the groundwork for a powerful exit storyline.
Then there’s Detective Hailey Upton, portrayed by Tracy Spiridakos, who has already confirmed she’s leaving the show at the end of Season 12. But what if the producers throw a curveball and write her out earlier than expected? Her character has been navigating a minefield of grief, guilt, and isolation ever since the departure of her husband, Jay Halstead (played by Jesse Lee Soffer), who left in Season 10. This emotional unraveling has left Upton in a precarious place, and some fans are theorizing that she might take a leave of absence—or worse—before the final episode of the season. Could a dramatic sacrifice or shocking twist push her out of Intelligence even sooner than planned?
Behind the scenes, scheduling conflicts, contract negotiations, and outside career opportunities always play a role in casting changes. As the One Chicago franchise continues to evolve, there’s growing interest from several cast members in branching out. Just recently, reports surfaced that Flueger is being considered for a lead role in a new streaming series, while Squerciati has been spotted filming what appears to be an indie film on the East Coast. Neither actor has commented publicly, but if either were to leave or take a break, it wouldn’t be the first time an actor exited Chicago P.D. to pursue new ventures.
Of course, let’s not forget Jason Beghe, who plays the formidable Sergeant Hank Voight. While there’s been no direct indication that Beghe is ready to step away, the character’s age, weariness, and growing disconnection from the evolving department hint at an eventual torch-passing moment. Voight’s leadership has defined the show since day one, but his increasingly isolated status—both personally and professionally—may point to a longer arc toward retirement or a sudden departure that leaves Intelligence scrambling.
All of these possibilities bring us back to the core question: Could Chicago P.D. lose a series regular before Season 13? The answer is: absolutely. Not only is the show at a narrative crossroads—with many storylines reaching emotional climaxes—but the real-life circumstances behind the camera also suggest that changes are inevitable. As painful as it might be for fans to accept, the Chicago P.D. team has never shied away from taking risks. That willingness to shock and devastate is part of what keeps the show compelling after so many years.
