The One Chicago universe is no stranger to shake-ups, but 2025 has proven to be one of its most emotionally jarring years yet. Following a string of high-profile exits from Chicago Med and Chicago Fire, the news that Chicago P.D. is now losing another core cast member has left fans reeling. The long-running police procedural, known for its gritty storytelling and tight-knit ensemble, is once again in transition—and viewers are feeling the weight of yet another goodbye.
Who’s Leaving Now?
While NBC has yet to make a formal press release, multiple sources close to production have confirmed that Tracy Spiridakos, who has played Detective Hailey Upton since Season 4, will not be returning for Season 13. Spiridakos, whose performance has been a consistent highlight of the series, reportedly wrapped filming for her final episode earlier this year.
Her departure marks the end of an era—not only because Upton is one of the show’s most emotionally complex characters, but because she was one of the last remaining ties to Jay Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer), who exited in Season 10. The dynamic between Upton and Halstead, both professionally and romantically, had been a central thread of the show for years.
Why the Exit Hits Hard
Spiridakos’ portrayal of Upton brought depth, vulnerability, and emotional turmoil to the series. Fans watched her evolve from a hardened, no-nonsense detective to someone deeply invested in the wellbeing of her team—even as her own inner demons haunted her. Upton wasn’t just another cop with a badge; she was a character battling trauma, abandonment, and moral gray zones while still showing up for the job every day.
Her exit leaves a major emotional void. Not since the shocking loss of Alvin Olinsky in Season 5 or Antonio Dawson’s departure has the show had to recalibrate such a pivotal character so suddenly.
What This Means for the Intelligence Unit
With Upton gone, the Intelligence Unit under Voight (Jason Beghe) faces more than just another staffing change. The dynamic of the team will inevitably shift, especially with younger officers like Torres (Benjamin Levy Aguilar) and the newly introduced Martel still finding their footing. While Chicago P.D. has always managed to weave new characters into the fabric of the team, Upton’s absence will be felt in every interrogation, every takedown, and every moment of silence.
Voight, too, stands to lose the most emotionally. His often controversial leadership has depended heavily on Upton’s loyalty and willingness to cross lines when needed. Their mentor-mentee relationship—complicated, at times morally questionable—was one of the show’s most unique bonds.
A Pattern Emerging?
Fans can’t help but notice a troubling pattern emerging across the One Chicago franchise: veteran actors stepping away, and characters who once seemed permanent leaving the canvas. Whether due to creative differences, actor burnout, or the natural evolution of long-running series, there’s no denying the impact these departures have on story arcs and fan investment.
Earlier this year, Chicago Fire said goodbye to Kara Killmer (Sylvie Brett), just months after Jesse Spencer (Matthew Casey) returned for a brief stint. Over on Chicago Med, Brian Tee (Dr. Ethan Choi) exited after a heartfelt wedding episode, and rumors continue to swirl about more cast shakeups to come.
With Spiridakos leaving P.D., viewers are beginning to ask a tough question: how many more goodbyes can One Chicago fans handle before the universe itself begins to unravel?
What’s Next for Spiridakos?
While the actress hasn’t publicly commented on her exit, industry insiders suggest Spiridakos is pursuing opportunities in film and premium streaming projects. With her talent and fanbase, it wouldn’t be surprising to see her land a leading role in another major drama soon. If anything, her time on Chicago P.D. has cemented her status as a versatile and emotionally resonant performer.
As for Upton’s final episode? Showrunner Gwen Sigan has hinted that the send-off will be “bittersweet, emotionally honest, and worthy of the character’s journey.” Whether that means a permanent goodbye or a potential door left open remains to be seen—but fans are already bracing for tears.
How Fans Are Reacting
Social media lit up the moment rumors began to surface. The hashtag #ThankYouTracy trended across platforms, with fans sharing favorite scenes, emotional tributes, and heartfelt messages. Many called for a “Halstead-Upton reunion” scene to give closure to both characters’ arcs, while others praised Spiridakos for portraying one of the most complex female leads on TV today.
One user wrote, “Hailey Upton isn’t just a character. She’s a mirror for survivors, fighters, and anyone trying to hold it together. Tracy Spiridakos gave us something real.”
The emotional investment fans have in Chicago P.D. is a testament to its powerful writing and stellar cast. Losing Upton doesn’t just change the show—it changes the experience of watching it.
Will New Blood Revive the Franchise?
NBC seems aware of the emotional toll these exits are having on audiences. That’s likely why they’ve invested in introducing new faces across the franchise. In Chicago P.D.’s upcoming episodes, fans will see more of Officer Dante Torres, who has already proven to be a breakout favorite. Additionally, a new detective played by a rising star from The Night Agent is expected to join the unit mid-season.
The network hopes that this infusion of fresh energy will help balance the loss of legacy characters. Still, for fans who’ve grown up with this team, the transition won’t be easy. As One Chicago enters a new chapter, the legacy of characters like Hailey Upton will endure. Spiridakos gave the audience a woman of strength, complexity, and unapologetic humanity. She wasn’t always right, but she was always real—and that’s what made her unforgettable. Chicago P.D. will continue, as it always has, but the landscape is changing. And while change can be painful, it’s also part of the storytelling journey. For now, we say thank you—to Tracy Spiridakos, to Hailey Upton, and to the stories that remind us why we keep coming back week after week.
