Big changes are coming to Chicago P.D.—and fans couldn’t be more excited. As the long-running police drama entered its 10th season, NBC officially confirmed that a fan-favorite character has been promoted to series regular status. The announcement not only signals the show’s continued evolution but also cements the character’s growing importance in the ever-complicated world of the Intelligence Unit.
The promotion is a long time coming and marks a major turning point for both the actor and the character. In a series that thrives on tension, character development, and emotional grit, this new addition to the main cast adds both fresh energy and deeper story potential. The actor stepping into the spotlight is Benjamin Levy Aguilar, who plays Dante Torres—a quietly intense and street-smart officer who made his debut in Season 9. Initially introduced as a temporary partner for Officer Kevin Atwater (LaRoyce Hawkins), Torres immediately stood out. His layered backstory, unshakable sense of justice, and unique methods made him an intriguing presence in the squad.
While many guest characters have come and gone in Chicago P.D. over the years, few have made the kind of impression Torres did. From the beginning, he brought a quiet confidence and a different kind of energy to the show. Unlike some of the more vocal members of the team, Torres is calculated, thoughtful, and often operates with a subtle intensity that keeps viewers guessing. His complicated background—having grown up in a rough neighborhood and experienced the darker side of both street life and policing—makes him a compelling foil to characters like Atwater, Halstead, and Voight. Torres sees the world differently, and that perspective is exactly what the Intelligence Unit needed.
In one of the season’s early episodes, we see Torres faced with a decision that forces him to choose between his past and his future—a theme that has since become central to his arc. Whether it’s navigating trust with his team or trying to do the right thing when the law isn’t clear-cut, Torres brings a new kind of internal conflict to Chicago P.D., one that resonates with younger viewers and longtime fans alike. His presence has also given the show a chance to reflect on themes like identity, systemic inequality, and the burden of expectations placed on officers from underrepresented backgrounds. It’s a nuanced take, and Aguilar has risen to the challenge with remarkable subtlety.
The Chicago P.D. team has expressed their excitement about Aguilar’s promotion. Showrunner Gwen Sigan said in an interview, “From the first table read, it was clear that Benjamin had something special. Torres is a character with so many layers, and Ben brings him to life in a way that’s both powerful and understated.” Co-stars like LaRoyce Hawkins and Marina Squerciati have also welcomed Aguilar with open arms, often sharing behind-the-scenes moments on social media that show the tight bond forming between cast members. Fans have responded with overwhelming positivity, celebrating the decision to promote Aguilar and calling for more Torres-centric storylines.
Promoting Benjamin Levy Aguilar isn’t just about giving one character more screen time—it’s about evolving the show. As Chicago P.D. enters its second decade on air, it faces the challenge of keeping things fresh while staying true to the gritty realism and complex storytelling that made it a hit in the first place. Torres represents a new generation of law enforcement officers—one that isn’t afraid to question authority, challenge systemic issues, and bring a different kind of moral compass to the job. That perspective is vital in today’s TV landscape, and Chicago P.D. is smart to recognize its power. His arc also sets the stage for future shake-ups. Could Torres eventually challenge Voight’s leadership? Might his loyalty to the team be tested in a future betrayal plotline? The possibilities are endless—and that’s exactly what makes his character so exciting.
Aguilar’s own journey to series regular status is also worth noting. Born in Guatemala, he trained in martial arts and originally pursued professional soccer before turning to acting. His breakout performance in Netflix’s Filthy Rich showed off his dramatic chops, but Chicago P.D. has become his true launchpad. In a recent interview, Aguilar expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “Being part of this team has been surreal. I’ve learned so much from the cast, the crew, and from playing Torres. I’m excited to continue telling his story.”
His authenticity, dedication, and unique presence make him a standout in a cast filled with heavyweights—and his promotion is proof that hard work and talent don’t go unnoticed. With Benjamin Levy Aguilar now a series regular, Chicago P.D. continues its tradition of strong, character-driven storytelling. Torres brings a fresh voice, new conflicts, and untapped potential to a show that’s never afraid to dig deep into the gray areas of justice. As Season 10 unfolds, fans can expect more growth, more tension, and more moments that test Torres’ character. And with Aguilar fully on board, there’s no doubt he’s ready to rise to the occasion.
