The One Chicago franchise has seen its fair share of cast turnovers over the years, but the latest news from Chicago P.D. has fans particularly shaken. As Season 13 draws closer, it’s been confirmed that yet another main cast member will not be returning. This marks one more in a growing list of high-profile exits that are beginning to redefine the beloved NBC universe. While fans are still reeling from the exits of characters like Jay Halstead and Hailey Upton in recent seasons, the departure of yet another core figure raises serious questions about what lies ahead for Chicago P.D. — and the One Chicago franchise as a whole.
Let’s break down what we know, what’s being said behind the scenes, and what this means for the future of the show. This new exit doesn’t stand alone. Over the past few years, One Chicago has seen an undeniable pattern of key actors stepping away. From Jesse Lee Soffer (Jay Halstead) to Tracy Spiridakos (Hailey Upton), and now this latest departure, the franchise seems to be in the middle of a quiet transformation.
While the network has yet to offer full details, sources say the actor’s decision to leave was not sudden. It had been discussed quietly in production meetings during Season 12. The actor is said to be pursuing other creative opportunities, including roles in film, limited series, and producing projects of their own. “They’ve been with us for years,” said a crew member. “It’s hard to imagine the set without them. But we’re proud of what they’ve accomplished — and what they’re heading toward.” As of now, there are no reports confirming whether the character could return for guest appearances in the future, but the door hasn’t been closed completely. In the One Chicago world, returns are always possible — just ask Antonio Dawson or Erin Lindsay.
It didn’t take long for fan communities to light up across Reddit, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). Some expressed fatigue with the constant cast turnover, while others were more understanding. “This show used to be about a solid core team,” one fan wrote. “Now it feels like a revolving door.” But others saw potential in the changes: “As sad as it is, change can lead to creative growth. Look at how much Atwater and Burgess have developed in the past few seasons.”
Still, there’s no denying the emotional weight of saying goodbye — again. As one post summarized: “You were more than a character. You were part of our Wednesday night.” Despite the losses, NBC has doubled down on its commitment to the One Chicago franchise. All three series — Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago P.D. — have been renewed through the 2025–26 season. However, these renewals came with news of budget trims, shorter seasons, and strategic shifts to keep the shows sustainable in a rapidly evolving TV landscape.
The question now is whether the shows can maintain their emotional depth and storytelling magic with so many central figures gone. Some fans are hopeful, citing the franchise’s proven ability to reinvent itself. Others worry that too many changes might dilute the original spirit. Still, if there’s one thing Chicago P.D. has proven over the years, it’s resilience. From Voight’s dark past to Burgess’s unbreakable strength, the show has always found a way to reflect real human struggle — even in the face of major loss.
The latest departure from Chicago P.D. is another reminder that even the strongest shows must evolve to survive. As painful as these goodbyes may be, they also open the door for new characters, stories, and creative energy. Fans may be saying farewell to a beloved character, but they’re also preparing for a new era. And if the franchise’s track record is any indication, there’s still plenty of heart-pounding, emotionally charged storytelling ahead.
