Chicago P.D. finally gave Kevin Atwater a long-overdue centric episode in Season 12, Episode 13. Fans have been clamoring for more screen time and deeper storytelling for LaRoyce Hawkins’ character, but did the episode live up to expectations? Unfortunately, while it was refreshing to see Atwater take center stage, the execution left much to be desired.
A Story That Should Have Been Bigger
Atwater has consistently been one of Chicago P.D.’s most underutilized characters, despite being a fan favorite and a crucial part of Intelligence. Season 12, Episode 13 promised to change that by placing him in the spotlight, yet the storyline failed to fully explore his complexities. Rather than giving him a deeply personal or morally challenging case, the plot felt like another standard investigation that didn’t capitalize on his unique perspective and experience.
Missed Opportunities for Character Development
One of the biggest letdowns of the episode was its lack of emotional depth. Atwater’s past—his struggles with police discrimination, his sense of justice, and his internal conflicts—has been a goldmine for powerful storytelling. However, this episode barely scratched the surface of what makes him such a compelling character. Instead of diving into these elements, it played out like just another procedural case.
LaRoyce Hawkins Deserves More
Despite the script’s shortcomings, LaRoyce Hawkins once again delivered a strong performance. His ability to bring authenticity and emotional weight to Atwater’s character remains one of the highlights of Chicago P.D. However, even his acting couldn’t fully salvage an episode that felt like a half-hearted attempt at giving Atwater his due.
The Bigger Issue with Atwater’s Role in the Series
Atwater-centric episodes are few and far between, and when they do happen, they often fail to provide lasting impact. This episode was another reminder that Chicago P.D. still hasn’t figured out how to properly utilize one of its most compelling characters. As the series moves forward, fans hope that future storylines will finally give Atwater the depth and significance he deserves.
Conclusion
While Chicago P.D. Season 12, Episode 13 was a step in the right direction by focusing on Kevin Atwater, it ultimately fell short of expectations. A character as layered and important as Atwater deserves more than a forgettable standalone case—he deserves a storyline that truly reflects his journey and impact within Intelligence. Hopefully, the showrunners take this as a lesson and give Atwater the justice he has long earned in future episodes.
