For fans of Chicago P.D., there’s nothing more exciting than getting a behind-the-scenes look at where all the action happens. In 2018, during a special press day for NBC’s One Chicago franchise—including Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med—stars Marina Squerciati and LaRoyce Hawkins took journalists and lucky guests on an exclusive tour of the Chicago P.D. set. Their infectious energy and camaraderie made for an unforgettable experience, offering fans a glimpse into what it’s really like to bring the show to life.
A Dynamic Duo: Squerciati and Hawkins Steal the Show
Marina Squerciati, who portrays Officer Kim Burgess, and LaRoyce Hawkins, known for his role as Officer Kevin Atwater, have long been fan favorites on Chicago P.D. Their on-screen chemistry as partners in the Intelligence Unit translates seamlessly into their real-life friendship. During the press day, their playful banter and inside jokes had everyone entertained, proving just how much fun they have both on and off the set.
From the moment they kicked off the tour, it was clear that Squerciati and Hawkins were just as excited as the visitors. They eagerly shared behind-the-scenes stories, pointing out iconic locations and giving insight into how the magic of Chicago P.D. is created.
Exploring the Set: From the Bullpen to Voight’s Office
The tour started in one of the most recognizable locations—the Intelligence Unit’s bullpen. This is where the team gathers to discuss cases, plan operations, and exchange witty remarks. Squerciati revealed that while the desks might look cluttered with real paperwork, most of it is just for show. “Don’t look too closely at these case files,” she joked. “Some of them are just pages from random books!”
Next, they led guests into Hank Voight’s (Jason Beghe) office, one of the most intense locations on the set. Voight’s intimidating presence dominates the space, and Hawkins even imitated their on-screen boss’s signature raspy voice, sending everyone into laughter. “Whenever I step in here, I automatically sit up straighter,” Hawkins admitted. “You just feel the power of Voight in this room.”
Revealing Secrets of Filming
One of the most fascinating parts of the tour was learning about the technical aspects of filming a high-intensity police drama. Squerciati explained how the cameras are strategically placed to capture the fast-paced action, while Hawkins demonstrated how stunt sequences are choreographed to look as realistic as possible.
They also let guests in on a little secret—despite the intense weather conditions Chicago is known for, some of the “outdoor” winter scenes are actually filmed inside with artificial snow. “We’ve all had to do scenes where we’re pretending to be freezing, even though it’s actually warm inside,” Squerciati laughed.
The Importance of the Chicago Setting
Unlike many TV dramas that rely on soundstages, Chicago P.D. is filmed on location in the Windy City. Hawkins, a native of the Chicago area, spoke about how important it is to represent the real-life city authentically. “Chicago isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character in itself,” he said. “We have a responsibility to showcase the city’s beauty and its struggles.”
Squerciati agreed, adding that the people of Chicago have embraced the show wholeheartedly. “We have so much love for this city, and the fans here are incredible,” she said. “They stop us on the street all the time to talk about the show, and it’s amazing to see how much it means to them.”
A Tour to Remember
The 2018 One Chicago press day was a dream come true for Chicago P.D. enthusiasts, thanks in large part to Marina Squerciati and LaRoyce Hawkins’ engaging and lighthearted tour. Their deep appreciation for the show, the cast, and the fans was evident in every moment.
As the tour wrapped up, Squerciati and Hawkins thanked everyone for their continued support of Chicago P.D. “We wouldn’t be here without you guys,” Hawkins said sincerely. “So keep watching, keep loving the show, and we’ll keep bringing you the best stories we can.”
