Chicago P.D. continues its twelfth gripping season, longtime fans are raising eyebrows—and concerns—over the noticeable and unexplained absence of a beloved cast member. While the Intelligence Unit faces one high-stakes case after another, it’s what’s not happening on screen that has many viewers talking.
Social media has been buzzing in recent weeks as fans question why Tracy Spiridakos, who plays Detective Hailey Upton, has been largely missing from recent episodes. The character, known for her fierce commitment, sharp instincts, and emotional depth, has been a central part of the team for years. Her low screen time—or complete disappearance in certain episodes—has sparked rumors, speculation, and genuine worry among the show’s loyal followers.
“Is Upton still part of the unit? Did I miss something?” one fan tweeted after Episode 15 aired without a single mention of her character. Another wrote, “I’m trying to enjoy the show, but it doesn’t feel the same without Hailey.”
A Noticeable Shift in Season 12
Since the beginning of Season 12, the show has seen a few shake-ups. New characters have entered the fold, including Chief Patty Reid, and the narrative focus has shifted toward others, such as Ruzek’s recovery and Atwater’s leadership. However, the decreasing presence of Detective Upton hasn’t been addressed in the storyline—at least not in a way that satisfies the fans.
This has led many to believe that Tracy Spiridakos may be quietly winding down her time on the series. Rumors about her potential departure began circulating earlier in the year, but no official statement has been made by NBC or the showrunners.
Is Tracy Spiridakos Leaving Chicago P.D.?
Back in early 2024, reports surfaced that Spiridakos might be preparing to exit Chicago P.D. sometime this season. Though nothing has been confirmed, her minimal screen time in the latest episodes seems to support that theory. What’s more frustrating for viewers is the lack of narrative closure or even a temporary explanation for her absence.
“I get that actors move on, but can we at least get a proper sendoff or storyline?” asked one viewer on Reddit. “Hailey deserves better than being phased out in silence.”
For now, there’s been no indication of a major upcoming episode focused on Upton, leaving fans in limbo.
What the Future Could Hold
If Tracy Spiridakos is indeed stepping away from Chicago P.D., the show faces a significant emotional and narrative gap. Her character has been through deep arcs—her marriage to Halstead, the emotional fallout after his departure, and her own internal struggles with trauma and justice. Upton has grown into one of the show’s most nuanced figures, and fans feel a strong emotional attachment to her journey.
The show has successfully navigated cast changes in the past, but losing Upton without a proper sendoff could be a blow to its emotional core.
A Message from the Fans: “We Deserve Answers”
While cast transitions are nothing new in the world of television, the silence surrounding Upton’s situation has left a bitter taste. Whether it’s a contract issue, a storyline decision, or a personal choice by the actress, fans are united in one message: “We deserve answers.” As Chicago P.D. moves toward the end of Season 12, one question looms larger than any case the Intelligence Unit can solve:
Where is Detective Hailey Upton—and will she ever return?
Until then, the speculation continues, and fans can only hope that the woman who helped carry the emotional weight of the series gets the farewell (or comeback) she truly deserves.
