When Tracy Spiridakos departed Chicago P.D. as Hailey Upton, it marked the end of a significant chapter not just for the Intelligence Unit, but for longtime fans of the series. Her absence left a noticeable void—Upton had evolved into one of the show’s most complex and morally grounded characters, serving as a critical emotional anchor, especially for Voight.
In a recent podcast appearance, Spiridakos reflected on her exit with surprising candor and a glimmer of hope. “If the story is right, I’d absolutely come back,” she revealed. That one line was enough to ignite fan speculation—and maybe even stir up a little optimism for the future.
Upton’s exit was explained with a transfer to a top-secret task force in Washington, D.C.—a narrative choice that felt more like a strategic pause than a hard goodbye. It’s a plot point that offers flexibility for a potential return, whether through a crossover, a brief reappearance, or even a full-circle comeback.
Showrunner Gwen Sigan has echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Upton’s story might not be entirely wrapped up. With NBC’s One Chicago universe embracing fluid character arcs and interconnected storytelling, the idea of Upton popping back into the P.D. world isn’t far-fetched at all.
For fans, the emotional heartbeat of the possible return lies in her bond with Hank Voight. Upton wasn’t just another detective—she became Voight’s moral compass, the one who challenged him when others wouldn’t. That dynamic, raw and often unspoken, was one of the show’s most compelling.
As Chicago P.D. moves into Season 13 with changes on the horizon, the possibility of a Upton return—even briefly—remains a bright spot for fans clinging to familiar faces in a constantly shifting squad room. For now, the door is ajar. And in the world of Chicago P.D., that’s more than enough to keep hope alive.
