Tracy Spiridakos’ portrayal of Detective Hailey Upton in Chicago P.D. captivated audiences for over six seasons. Her departure from the series in Season 11 left fans with lingering questions. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind her exit and the emotional journey leading up to it.
The Decision to Leave: A Personal Choice
Tracy Spiridakos made the difficult decision to leave Chicago P.D. at the end of Season 10. She expressed that after over seven years on the show, she felt it was time to explore new opportunities. In an interview, she shared,
“It was a really hard decision, and I don’t know that there’s ever a right time… I was just wanting to switch it up and kind of see what else was out there.”
Crafting Hailey Upton’s Exit
Showrunner Gwen Sigan emphasized the importance of giving Hailey Upton a meaningful and earned departure. The team aimed to delve into Hailey’s emotional journey, showcasing her internal struggles and growth. Sigan noted,
“We wanted to earn the goodbye… It was all about how can we get into all of those deep little pockets of how she’s feeling and the emotion there.”
Hailey’s Final Moments on Screen
In her final episode, Hailey Upton faced a life-threatening situation while rescuing Sergeant Hank Voight from a serial killer. Despite sustaining injuries, she managed to outsmart the antagonist and ensure Voight’s safety. Her last scene depicted her contemplating a new path, hinting at a future with organizations like the FBI or DEA.
The Emotional Farewell
Tracy Spiridakos expressed deep gratitude for her time on Chicago P.D., acknowledging the close bonds formed with the cast and crew. She described her departure as “a really difficult and emotional time,” reflecting on the enriching experience and profound connections made.
Reactions from Co-Stars
Her co-stars shared heartfelt sentiments about her exit. LaRoyce Hawkins (Atwater) described Spiridakos as “extremely funny, extremely sweet,” likening her to a sister. Jason Beghe (Voight) expressed respect and love for Spiridakos, stating,
“She will always be part of the shop… she’s changed the show, and therefore even going forward, whether she’s in the episode or not, she’ll be part of the show.”
Speculations About Hailey’s Future
Before her departure, Hailey was seen exploring job opportunities with federal agencies, leading fans to speculate about her future. While the show left her storyline open-ended, the possibility of her joining another agency within the Dick Wolf universe remains a topic of discussion among fans.
The Impact on the Series
Hailey Upton’s exit marks a significant change in the dynamics of the Intelligence Unit. Her departure paves the way for new characters and storylines, ensuring the series continues to evolve and captivate its audience.
Tracy Spiridakos’ Future Endeavors
Post-Chicago P.D., Tracy Spiridakos has expressed interest in exploring diverse roles and projects. Her departure from the series opens new avenues for her career, and fans eagerly anticipate her future endeavors.
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
Tracy Spiridakos’ decision to leave Chicago P.D. was a personal one, driven by a desire for new challenges and experiences. Her portrayal of Hailey Upton left an indelible mark on the series, and her exit, though bittersweet, signifies the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both the actress and the show.
FAQs
1. Why did Tracy Spiridakos leave Chicago P.D.?
Tracy Spiridakos decided to leave the series after over seven years to explore new opportunities and challenges.
2. How did Hailey Upton exit the show?
In her final episode, Hailey Upton rescued Sergeant Hank Voight from a serial killer, leading to her departure as she sought a new path.
3. Will Hailey Upton return to Chicago P.D.?
While her exit was open-ended, there has been no official confirmation regarding her return to the series.
4. What are Tracy Spiridakos’ future plans?
Tracy Spiridakos is exploring new roles and projects, with fans eagerly awaiting her next steps in her acting career.
5. How did the cast react to Tracy Spiridakos’ departure?
Co-stars expressed deep affection and respect for Spiridakos, highlighting the close bonds formed during their time together on the show
