For eight unforgettable seasons, Tracy Spiridakos brought strength, vulnerability, and grit to one of the most beloved characters in the One Chicago universe: Detective Hailey Upton on Chicago P.D.. When news broke in 2023 that Spiridakos would exit the long-running NBC police procedural after Season 11, fans were devastated. Her departure marked the end of an era for Intelligence Unit viewers who had watched Upton evolve from a troubled recruit to a fierce, loyal detective—and eventually, a wife grappling with heartbreak.
Even as Chicago P.D. marches into its later seasons (with Season 12 underway and Season 13 on the horizon), the outcry hasn’t quieted. Social media platforms like Reddit, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) are flooded with pleas: “Bring back Upton!” “Tracy Spiridakos needs to return to Chicago P.D.!” and “Fans begging Hailey to come home.” Recent photos of Spiridakos back in the Windy City, smiling against stunning sunset skylines, only fueled the fire—prompting an emotional wave of comments begging the actress to reprise her iconic role.
Why are fans so passionate about her return? Let’s dive into Hailey Upton’s journey, the reasons behind Spiridakos’ exit, the fan reactions, and whether a comeback is possible in the future.
Who Is Tracy Spiridakos and Why Hailey Upton Became a Fan Favorite
Tracy Spiridakos joined Chicago P.D. in Season 4 (2017) as a recurring character before being promoted to series regular in Season 5. Over the years, she appeared in more than 140 episodes, making Hailey Upton one of the longest-tenured members of the Intelligence Unit after Sergeant Hank Voight (Jason Beghe).
Upton’s arc was compelling: a survivor of childhood trauma, she built walls around herself but slowly opened up through her partnerships—first with Jay Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer), whom she married, and later in her deep, almost familial bond with Voight. Spiridakos’ performance was praised for its nuance—she brought quiet intensity to interrogations, emotional depth to personal struggles, and raw power to action sequences.
Fans loved Upton for her complexity. She wasn’t just another tough cop; she was relatable, flawed, and resilient. When Jay left Chicago in Season 10 for a mission abroad (and chose not to return), Upton’s storyline shifted to grief, independence, and eventual self-discovery. By Season 11, her exit felt earned—but heartbreaking. She left Chicago to start fresh, pursuing a new opportunity far from the city’s chaos.
Spiridakos herself described the decision as bittersweet in interviews. “I love this group of people… It was a really hard decision to make,” she told outlets like Variety and Deadline. “I’ve been on the show for 7½ years… I was curious about what else was out there and wanted to switch it up.”
The Emotional Exit in Season 11 and Immediate Fan Backlash
Chicago P.D. Season 11 finale delivered Upton’s sendoff with a mix of peace and finality. She made the choice from a place of growth, not despair—something Spiridakos highlighted as important. Yet, the episode left doors cracked open: no death, no irreconcilable conflict, just a character stepping away for her well-being.
Almost immediately, fans reacted strongly. Reddit threads like “Bring back Upton!” garnered hundreds of comments, with users debating her impact on the team dynamic. On Facebook groups dedicated to the show, posts about Spiridakos’ post-exit photos (including her radiant Chicago sunset selfies in August 2024) exploded with pleas: “Please come back, Tracy!” “Chicago P.D. isn’t the same without Hailey.”
The sentiment peaked when Spiridakos shared Windy City images, reminding everyone of her connection to the city where the show films. Fans interpreted it as a sign—why return to Chicago if not to film? Comments begged her directly: “Tracy, see these comments? We need you back on Chicago P.D.!”
Current Status: No Return in Sight, But Fans Keep Hoping
As of 2026, Chicago P.D. has moved forward without Upton. Season 12 adjusted to her absence, focusing on Voight, Burgess (Marina Squerciati), Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger), and newer additions. The show remains strong in ratings, but many viewers feel a void.
Spiridakos has embraced new opportunities. In 2025, she landed her first major post-P.D. role: starring as the lead in USA Network’s Anna Pigeon, an adaptation of Nevada Barr’s mystery novels, set to premiere in 2026. She also appeared in the thriller film After. These projects signal her career is thriving—but they make a quick return to Chicago P.D. unlikely due to scheduling.
In interviews around her exit, Spiridakos left the door ajar: “I would love to reappear, that would be amazing.” Showrunner Gwen Sigan and the team have spoken fondly of Upton, hinting future guest spots aren’t impossible in the interconnected One Chicago world.
Still, Screen Rant and other outlets note that Upton’s return isn’t needed for the show’s success. The current ensemble is solid, and forcing her back could undermine her Season 11 closure. Yet fan passion persists—petitions may not exist formally, but online calls are a modern equivalent.
Why Fans Are Still Begging for Tracy Spiridakos’ Return
Several factors fuel the ongoing campaign:
- Chemistry with the Cast — Upton’s relationships (especially with Voight and Burgess) were highlights. Her absence changes team dynamics.
- Unfinished Storylines — Upton’s personal growth felt open-ended; fans want to see her thrive or reconnect.
- Star Power — Spiridakos brought a unique energy. Many believe the show loses edge without her.
- Nostalgia for Peak Seasons — Seasons 7-10, with Upton-Halstead at the center, are fan favorites.
- Emotional Connection — Fans relate to Upton’s journey of healing and independence.
Social media keeps the conversation alive. Every Spiridakos post or Chicago sighting reignites “come back” pleas.
Could Hailey Upton Return in Future Seasons?
While improbable short-term (given Anna Pigeon commitments), TV has surprises. Guest appearances happen in One Chicago crossovers. If Spiridakos’ schedule aligns and the story demands it, Upton could cameo—perhaps consulting on a case or visiting old friends.
For now, fans can rewatch Upton’s episodes on streaming platforms. Spiridakos’ new projects offer fresh ways to support her.
Conclusion
The pleas for Tracy Spiridakos to come back to Chicago P.D. show the profound impact she and Hailey Upton had. From her powerful debut to her graceful exit, Spiridakos delivered a character fans won’t forget. While a full-time return seems distant as she explores exciting new roles like Anna Pigeon, the love from the Chicago P.D. community endures.
Who knows? In the unpredictable world of television, doors sometimes reopen. Until then, fans will keep hoping—and occasionally begging—for one more chapter with Detective Hailey Upton. Tracy, if you’re reading this: Chicago misses you.
