When a beloved character like Detective Hailey Upton’s partner, Officer Kevin Atwater, isn’t the one leaving but instead it’s Detective Alvin Olinsky’s protege, Detective Jay Halstead’s close ally Reid, fans are bound to feel shaken. But why did ‘Chicago P.D.’ decide to kill off Detective Kim Burgess’ partner, Officer Sean Roman — or more specifically, why did the show kill off Reid, the cool-headed, meticulous cop? And how did that heartbreaking decision set the stage for Voight’s rollercoaster ride in Season 13? Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Shock: Who Was Reid on ‘Chicago P.D.’?
Before diving into the “why,” it’s important to get who Reid was. Detective Reid wasn’t just a background cop — he was a fan favorite for his calm demeanor, sharp instincts, and unwavering loyalty to his team. Viewers loved his grounded approach to crime-fighting, often serving as the voice of reason amid chaotic investigations.
The Unexpected Loss: When and How Reid Was Killed Off
Reid’s death came suddenly and brutally, leaving fans stunned. The episode didn’t just end a character’s arc — it ripped the heart out of the show. But this wasn’t a random move. The writers crafted this exit to serve a greater narrative purpose, focusing heavily on emotional weight and long-term consequences.
Why Did ‘Chicago P.D.’ Kill Off Reid? The Writers’ Perspective
1. Raising the Stakes
In a gritty police procedural like Chicago P.D., stakes need to stay high to keep viewers hooked. Killing Reid raised the bar — it showed no one was safe, creating suspense and unpredictability.
2. Amplifying Emotional Depth
Reid’s death was a catalyst for emotional growth and turmoil among the team, especially for Voight and Upton. It pushed characters into darker, more complex territory, enhancing storytelling depth.
3. Making Way for New Storylines
Sometimes, killing a character opens narrative doors that wouldn’t exist otherwise. Reid’s exit paved the way for new alliances, rivalries, and character developments, especially Voight’s journey in Season 13.
Voight’s Evolution: How Reid’s Death Shapes Season 13
1. Voight’s Moral Compass is Tested
Voight, the show’s gritty and morally complex leader, faces an emotional earthquake after Reid’s death. His usual tough-guy approach is shaken, exposing vulnerabilities and forcing him to rethink his leadership.
2. Fueling Voight’s Pursuit of Justice
Reid’s death becomes a driving force behind Voight’s relentless hunt for answers. It propels the storyline forward with urgency and intensity, hooking viewers with high stakes and emotional payoff.
3. New Dynamics with Team Members
Voight’s relationships with the squad — especially with Upton and Atwater — shift as they all deal with loss differently. Reid’s absence leaves a gap that creates tension but also new growth opportunities.
The Impact on Fans and the ‘Chicago P.D.’ Community
1. Fan Reactions: Shock, Grief, and Debate
The fandom was divided — some praised the bold storytelling, while others mourned the loss of a beloved character. The intense reactions prove how well the show builds emotional connections.
2. Social Media Buzz and Discussions
Reid’s death sparked a flood of conversations across Twitter, Reddit, and fan forums. Fans dissected the episode, theorized about upcoming plots, and shared heartfelt tributes.
Behind the Scenes: What the Cast and Creators Said
1. Creative Intentions
Showrunner Dick Wolf and the writing team have explained that killing Reid was essential for the story arc, not just shock value. It was about realism and showing the dangers cops face daily.
2. Cast Reflections
Actors from the cast shared their emotional journeys during filming, revealing how Reid’s death deeply affected their performances and connection to their characters.
How Reid’s Death Connects to Larger Themes in ‘Chicago P.D.’
1. The Cost of Justice
The show doesn’t sugarcoat the police world. Reid’s death reminds viewers of the real-life risks officers take and the emotional toll of law enforcement.
2. Brotherhood and Loyalty
Reid’s death highlights the team’s tight-knit bond and how loss affects group dynamics, loyalty, and personal boundaries.
Predictions: What Reid’s Death Means for Season 13 and Beyond
1. Voight’s Darker Path
Expect Voight to push harder, possibly crossing lines he hadn’t before, as grief fuels his quest for justice.
2. New Characters and Alliances
The vacancy Reid left will likely introduce fresh faces and shake up team chemistry in unexpected ways.
3. Emotional Arcs for Key Players
Watch for intense personal growth and emotional reckonings, especially for Upton and Atwater, who were closest to Reid.
Conclusion
Killing off Reid on Chicago P.D. was more than a plot twist — it was a powerful storytelling choice that raised the stakes, deepened emotional connections, and set the stage for Voight’s gripping journey in Season 13. This move shocked fans but ultimately enriched the show’s narrative, making Chicago P.D. one of the most intense police dramas on TV. Reid’s death is a brutal reminder that in this line of work, sacrifice is real — and every loss reshapes the team, their mission, and the story that keeps us glued to the screen.
