After more than a decade of explosive storylines, gritty investigations, and emotional character arcs, Chicago P.D. is facing another major shake-up — and this one is going to sting. NBC has officially confirmed that one of the show’s most beloved stars will not be returning for Season 13. Fans are stunned, speculation is swirling, and the Intelligence Unit will never be the same.
So, who’s leaving? Why now? And what does it mean for the future of the series?
Let’s break it down.
A Shocking Exit: Who’s Saying Goodbye?
It’s now official — Tracy Spiridakos, who plays the fan-favorite Detective Hailey Upton, will be exiting the series at the end of Season 12. While the news had been rumored for months, the confirmation still comes as a massive blow to viewers who’ve grown deeply attached to Upton’s fierce dedication, sharp instincts, and emotionally complex storyline.
Tracy joined Chicago P.D. in Season 4 and quickly became a core member of the Intelligence team. Over the years, she’s been through it all — high-stakes shootouts, harrowing undercover missions, ethical dilemmas, and heartbreaking personal loss. But perhaps her most defining storyline has been her romantic relationship (and eventual marriage) with fellow detective Jay Halstead (played by Jesse Lee Soffer).
Now, with Halstead already gone and Upton soon to follow, it truly marks the end of an era.
Why Is Tracy Spiridakos Leaving?
Though NBC and the actress herself have not gone into full detail, sources close to production suggest that Spiridakos chose to step away to pursue new creative opportunities. After spending nearly eight seasons on one of television’s most intense procedural dramas, it’s not uncommon for actors to seek fresh challenges — especially after building such a strong legacy.
In a previous interview, Spiridakos hinted at wanting to explore other genres outside of crime drama and possibly return to her roots in comedy or action-based film work. While she’s expressed nothing but gratitude for her time on Chicago P.D., it’s clear that she’s ready to turn the page.
Fans are, of course, heartbroken — but many also recognize the importance of honoring an actor’s desire for growth. And if we know Hailey Upton, she wouldn’t want to leave quietly. She deserves a proper sendoff.
What Does This Mean for the Show?
Upton’s departure is a seismic shift — not just emotionally, but logistically. She’s been one of the strongest and most morally centered characters on the team, often acting as the voice of reason in the morally gray world of Hank Voight’s unit.
With both Halstead and Upton gone, the Intelligence Unit is losing two of its brightest stars and strongest field operatives. That raises big questions:
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Will Voight promote someone new internally?
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Could a brand-new detective be introduced in Season 13?
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Is this the beginning of a larger cast overhaul?
All of these possibilities are on the table. The writers have previously demonstrated a knack for introducing new characters who slowly win over fans (think of Dante Torres, played by Benjamin Levy Aguilar), so the next chapter could be just as compelling — if different.
How Will Hailey Upton’s Story End?
This is the million-dollar question — and so far, the Chicago P.D. team is keeping the specifics under wraps. However, showrunner Gwen Sigan has promised that Upton’s exit will be “deeply emotional” and “true to who she is.”
That leaves the door wide open. Could she finally find peace and leave the force altogether? Might she reunite with Halstead off-screen and leave Chicago behind for good? Or will her final storyline involve one last dangerous mission that pushes her to the edge?
Whatever the case, fans are hoping that the writers don’t kill her off — not only because it would be too tragic, but also because Upton deserves the chance to choose her own future after all she’s endured.
A History of Big Exits
Of course, this isn’t the first time Chicago P.D. has had to say goodbye to a major character.
Over the years, we’ve seen heartbreaking departures like Alvin Olinsky (Elias Koteas), who was killed in prison; Erin Lindsay (Sophia Bush), who moved to New York; and Jay Halstead, who took a military position in Bolivia. Each of these exits reshaped the show’s dynamic, forcing the team to adapt in new and sometimes painful ways.
Still, the writers have consistently managed to reinvent Chicago P.D. while staying true to its gritty, character-driven roots. That gives hope that even with Upton gone, the show can continue to evolve.
What Fans Are Saying
Unsurprisingly, social media exploded when news of Spiridakos’ departure broke. Thousands of fans took to Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit to express their sadness — and, in some cases, anger — over losing yet another core character.
Some viewers feel the show is changing too much and are worried it might lose its emotional anchor. Others are hopeful that a strong new character could step in and help usher in a new chapter.
One fan summed it up perfectly: “Upton was the heart of Intelligence. Her goodbye better break me in the best way.”
What’s Next for Tracy Spiridakos?
Though her future projects haven’t been formally announced, Spiridakos is an incredibly talented and versatile actress. With a strong fan base and years of experience in drama, action, and comedy, she’s likely to have her pick of exciting opportunities. Whether it’s a major streaming drama, a feature film, or even a return to the stage, it’s clear that this is only the beginning of a new chapter in her career. And wherever she goes, fans will be watching — and cheering her on.
The departure of Tracy Spiridakos marks a bittersweet moment for Chicago P.D.. It’s a chance to reflect on all that Detective Upton has brought to the show — strength, empathy, integrity, and fierce loyalty — and to prepare for the new dynamics that Season 13 will bring. Though we hate to say goodbye, we know one thing for sure: Upton’s legacy will live on, both within the Intelligence Unit and in the hearts of fans.
