As anticipation builds for Season 13 of Chicago P.D., fans are bracing themselves for a series of major cast changes that promise to reshape the fabric of Intelligence. After an emotional and unpredictable twelfth season — which featured character exits, surprise twists, and life-or-death stakes — the upcoming season is shaping up to be a pivotal one. But the question on every fan’s mind remains: which of our favorite characters are coming back, and who’s not?
First and foremost, Jason Beghe, the ever-intense Hank Voight, is confirmed to return. His presence at the heart of the show continues to anchor the narrative, and Season 13 will delve even deeper into Voight’s moral gray zones as he faces a newly fractured team. Sources close to production have hinted that Voight may be more isolated than ever before — with fewer allies and mounting pressure both inside and outside the CPD.
As for Patrick John Flueger’s Adam Ruzek, fans can breathe a sigh of relief — for now. After barely surviving the events of Season 12 and coping with Martel’s shocking death, Ruzek will be back. However, his return may come with unexpected consequences, especially as he grapples with trust issues and emotional scars that haven’t yet healed. Will he be the same cop he once was, or will his trauma push him in a new direction?
LaRoyce Hawkins, who plays Kevin Atwater, is also confirmed to return, and fans can expect him to take on a bigger leadership role this season. With the unit splintered and certain key players gone, Atwater may find himself caught between his loyalty to Voight and his vision for what ethical policing should look like. Season 13 could be the season he finally steps into a more vocal, commanding presence.
On the other hand, Tracy Spiridakos, who portrayed Hailey Upton, has officially exited the show. Her departure at the end of Season 12 left a massive emotional void, especially considering her tense goodbye with Voight. Upton’s exit was heartbreaking — a culmination of years of personal and professional struggle — and her absence will no doubt send shockwaves through the team. Whether she’s mentioned again or fades into silence remains to be seen, but fans will certainly miss her complex, layered presence.
The same goes for Jesse Lee Soffer, who played Jay Halstead and departed earlier in the series. Despite rumors of a potential return or cameo, no confirmation has surfaced. As Season 13 unfolds, Halstead’s name may come up in passing, but a full return still appears unlikely — especially given his character’s off-screen arc and the writers’ focus on newer developments.
Marina Squerciati’s future as Kim Burgess remains uncertain. While she has not officially announced her exit, cryptic comments and storylines suggesting a major turning point have fans speculating whether Burgess might step away from Intelligence — or from the show entirely. Her bond with Ruzek continues to be one of the emotional pillars of Chicago P.D., so her departure (if it happens) would be a devastating blow.
Meanwhile, Amy Morton’s future as desk sergeant Trudy Platt is also in question. Morton has taken on a more limited role in recent seasons, and with rumors of her character contemplating retirement, it’s unclear how much screen time Trudy will get moving forward. Still, her sharp wit and no-nonsense style have made her a fan favorite, and viewers are hoping she sticks around — at least for a few more episodes.
As the cast reshuffles and Intelligence prepares for its next chapter, Chicago P.D. Season 13 is shaping up to be a reboot of sorts. With a mix of returning veterans, emotional exits, and possible new recruits, the drama is far from over. Longtime fans may feel the sting of saying goodbye, but they also know one thing for certain: in Chicago P.D., no one’s story is ever truly finished — and surprises are always just around the corner.
