Tracy Spiridakos joined Chicago P.D. in Season 4 and quickly became a fan favorite. Upton is a detective with a troubled past and an iron will, often struggling to balance justice with loyalty. Spiridakos brought a raw emotional edge to Upton, making her one of the most complex and compelling characters on the show. Her bond with Halstead evolved into one of the show’s central romances, but it’s her growth as a leader and her nuanced morality that left the deepest mark.
Spiridakos announced she would leave the show after Season 12, a decision that has saddened many longtime fans. Her impending departure signals the end of an era, especially for viewers who watched her grow from a tough outsider into a core member of the Intelligence Unit. As Upton’s arc nears its conclusion, many are hoping her final episodes include meaningful moments with the teammates who supported her along the way—especially Atwater.
LaRoyce Hawkins has been with Chicago P.D. since day one, and his portrayal of Kevin Atwater has been nothing short of extraordinary. Atwater is not only brave and smart, but also deeply principled. He consistently stands up for what’s right, even when it means going against the grain—whether it’s taking a stand against racism within the department or advocating for the community he grew up in. Hawkins has handled every storyline with grace and strength, transforming Atwater into the heart of the show. Unlike many characters who operate in moral gray areas, Atwater’s clarity and conviction make him a beacon in the chaos. And over the years, Hawkins and Spiridakos have built a subtle, steadfast bond between their characters, rooted in respect and shared experience.
Their teamwork is based not on drama or intensity, but on trust. When paired together in investigations, their dynamic is smooth, effective, and powerful. They don’t need to say much—they just get each other. That kind of chemistry, especially in a show filled with tension and conflict, is rare and refreshing. Offscreen, Tracy Spiridakos and LaRoyce Hawkins share a similar vibe: professional, gracious, and always supportive of their castmates. They’ve spoken in interviews about the importance of representation, character depth, and the responsibility they feel in portraying law enforcement with care and authenticity. Their mutual respect is evident in every behind-the-scenes clip, press event, and social media post.
As fans brace for Upton’s exit, one of the questions many are asking is: what will happen to the bond between Upton and Atwater? Will we see them share one last case, one last conversation, one final show of loyalty? The hope is that the writers honor the quiet but meaningful friendship between these two characters—because in many ways, it represents what Chicago P.D. is all about: courage, loyalty, and doing the right thing even when it’s hard. Upton’s departure will undoubtedly send ripples through the Intelligence Unit. For Atwater, who has lost many colleagues over the years—from Olinsky to Halstead—this will be another tough goodbye. But if anyone can carry the emotional weight of her absence with dignity, it’s Atwater.
With Tracy Spiridakos moving on and LaRoyce Hawkins remaining a core part of the cast, the future of Chicago P.D. continues to evolve. Hawkins has hinted in interviews that Season 13 may bring new dynamics and deeper storylines for Atwater, and fans are excited to see him take center stage more often. Spiridakos, meanwhile, leaves behind a legacy of strength, vulnerability, and emotional honesty. As Season 12 progresses, fans will be watching closely for those final moments between Upton and Atwater—two warriors of justice, bonded by their belief in something bigger than themselves.
