Chicago PD has found the perfect replacement for Erin Lindsay, 8 years after Sophia Bush left the NBC series. After the success of Chicago Fire, Dick Wolf didn’t waste any time expanding the One Chicago franchise by launching its own cop series. Unlike Law & Order, the Windy City-based universe leans more into personal dramas.
This meant that there was intentional focus on its characters and establishing their backstories in relation to their jobs. For Intelligence, the earliest seasons of Chicago PD tackled the personal arcs of its members more frequently than it does now. With the squad’s dynamics playing a big role in its storytelling.
One Chicago isn’t new to cast changes — something that it continues to experience until now. Intelligence has seen its fair share of farewells, some more emotional than others. Because of that, replacing departing characters hasn’t been easy, especially Bush’s Erin.
Chicago PD Season 13’s Eva Imani Is Cut From The Same Cloth As Erin Lindsay
On the heels of Toya Turner’s unexpected exit as Kiana Cook, NBC has tapped Arienne Mandi to play Eva Imani — the newest member of Intelligence. Ahead of Chicago PD season 13’s debut, pertinent details about her have been released, and she sure sounds like a character in the same vein as Erin.
Jason Beghe (via TV Insider) describes the character as “tough, rebellious and not necessarily a team player.” He also dubs Imani as “almost like a young female version of Voight.” Beyond this, the Chicago PD season 13 promo offers a better idea of her spunk and attitude.
Interestingly, the way Imani handles herself and her ability to stand up to Voight are reminiscent of Erin during the earliest years of Chicago PD. Both characters are bold, straightforward, and most importantly, can easily call out Voight. While some Intelligence members can do the same, Iman having that ability from the get-go makes her the perfect replacement for Erin.
How Eva’s Arrival Changes Intelligence’s Dynamic In Chicago PD Season 13
Over the last few years, Chicago PD’s Inteligence has downsized. This is due to external factors and has nothing to do with the show’s narrative. Admittedly, seeing Cook leave is disappointing, considering her unique background, which would have been very interesting to see develop.
That said, bringing in someone like Imani, who is already a very exciting player, may just be what helps Chicago PD shake things up. It’s no secret that ratings for the One Chicago police procedural have dropped in recent seasons. At this point, it needs a major and immediate revamp before it’s too late.
Imani’s strong personality opens a lot of narrative opportunities for Chicago PD, especially when it comes to Voight. Openly challenging him could help in terms of his personal character development. Perhaps Voight can even see himself in Imani, which will make their relationship more intriguing and unexpected.
