Chicago P.D. has never been shy about shaking things up. As the show heads into its milestone 13th season, fans are gearing up for another thrilling round of crime-fighting, character drama, and high-stakes storytelling. Over the years, the series has built a loyal fanbase thanks to its gritty realism, heart-pounding cases, and the complex dynamics of its elite Intelligence Unit.
But as any long-time Chicago P.D. viewer knows, the lineup never stays the same for too long. With departures, heartbreaking losses, and surprise arrivals, the cast constantly evolves to reflect both the unpredictability of policing and the demands of a long-running show. Season 13 is no exception. This year, the show is introducing new faces who are expected to bring fresh energy, new conflicts, and perhaps even new alliances to Intelligence. So, who exactly are the new cast members of Chicago P.D. Season 13, and what can fans expect from their arrival? Let’s break it down.
A New Era Begins Without Hailey Upton
The departure of Hailey Upton (played by Tracy Spiridakos) was one of the biggest shocks of Season 12. Upton, a fan-favorite with a strong moral compass and fierce dedication to the job, had become a cornerstone of Intelligence. Her absence creates a huge gap—not only for fans but also for her teammates, especially given her complicated history with Voight and her emotional connection to Halstead.
This opens the door for new blood. Chicago P.D. Season 13 is making a bold move by pulling talent from within the One Chicago universe, setting the stage for intriguing cross-department dynamics.
Med Joins the Fight
In another surprise, a Chicago Med alum is also stepping into the world of policing. This character, originally introduced as a skilled doctor, is making a dramatic career shift into law enforcement. On paper, this might seem unusual, but given the shared One Chicago DNA, it’s actually a brilliant move.
Having a medical professional in the mix opens up fascinating possibilities. Imagine a character who not only understands the streets but can also bring a life-saving perspective to dangerous cases. Plus, their background is sure to spark interesting tension with the rest of the team—especially in moments when emotions run high, and decisions could mean life or death.
While new cast members are grabbing headlines, Chicago P.D. Season 13 will still lean heavily on its core players: Voight, Burgess, Ruzek, and Atwater. These characters have been through hell and back, and their evolution over the years is part of why fans keep coming back.
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Voight (Jason Beghe): The grizzled leader will undoubtedly test the newcomers with his unorthodox methods. He’s infamous for pushing limits, and it remains to be seen whether the new recruits will follow his lead or clash with his style.
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Burgess (Marina Squerciati) and Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger): Fresh off their emotional arcs in Season 12, including their family struggles, they may find themselves in mentorship roles—whether they like it or not.
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Atwater (LaRoyce Hawkins): Known for his integrity and loyalty, Atwater is often the moral compass of the team. His interactions with rookies and outsiders could shape how the new lineup gels.
The balance between these veterans and the newcomers will define much of Season 13’s dramatic tension.
Why the New Cast Matters
Introducing new cast members isn’t just about shaking up storylines—it’s about keeping the show relevant. After 12 seasons, Chicago P.D. needs fresh perspectives to explore new themes and challenges. By adding characters from Fire and Med, the show creates deeper ties within the One Chicago world, which could lead to crossover episodes and expanded storytelling opportunities.
For fans, these changes are both exciting and nerve-wracking. Will the new cast members live up to the legacy of characters like Upton, Halstead, or Olinsky? Or will they forge their own unique paths that redefine what Intelligence looks like?
