The streets of Chicago are heating up once again — and fans of the long-running NBC hit Chicago P.D. are already counting down the days. As the series gears up for its 13th season, there’s a lot to unpack: major cast changes, storyline teases, and a premiere that promises to set a bold new tone. With over a decade of crime, loyalty, and blurred lines between justice and morality, Chicago P.D. remains one of the most-watched procedural dramas on television. But Season 13 marks a new chapter — one filled with uncertainty, reinvention, and the departure of a fan-favorite.
Here’s everything you need to know before the Intelligence Unit returns to your screen.
One of the biggest headlines surrounding Season 13 is the departure of Tracy Spiridakos, who has portrayed Detective Hailey Upton since Season 4. After nearly eight seasons of intense storylines, Spiridakos is officially exiting the series at the end of Season 12. Her departure leaves a significant hole in the Intelligence Unit — and in the hearts of fans. Upton has been a cornerstone of the show, known for her resilience, empathy, and fierce loyalty. Her storyline — especially her complicated relationship with Jay Halstead — has been one of the emotional anchors of the series.
While fans hope her sendoff will be meaningful and respectful, it also raises a key question: Who will take her place? As of now, no official casting announcements have been made regarding a direct replacement, but NBC is known for introducing new characters in surprising ways. We may see a new recruit join Voight’s team, or an existing recurring character promoted to full-time.
Returning cast members expected for Season 13 include:
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Jason Beghe as Sgt. Hank Voight
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Marina Squerciati as Officer Kim Burgess
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Patrick John Flueger as Officer Adam Ruzek
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LaRoyce Hawkins as Officer Kevin Atwater
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Benjamin Levy Aguilar as Officer Dante Torres
Given the chemistry and evolving dynamics within the unit, Season 13 may see some new pairings and leadership shifts within the team. While plot details are being kept under wraps, showrunner Gwen Sigan has teased that Season 13 will be a “rebuilding season” in many ways. With Upton gone and the team still adjusting to the aftermath of major events in Season 12 — including Ruzek’s harrowing undercover operation and Burgess’s emotional trauma — the upcoming season will explore how the Intelligence Unit redefines itself.
Expect the show to delve even deeper into the personal toll the job takes on its officers. Voight’s evolving leadership style will likely come into focus, especially as he copes with another loss in his inner circle. Voight has always operated in shades of gray, but Upton often served as his emotional and ethical compass — her absence will be deeply felt. Season 13 could also continue the arc of Officer Torres, who emerged as a key player in Season 11 and 12. His backstory, struggles with loyalty, and unique moral code offer rich storytelling opportunities.
Chicago P.D. has a strong history of crossover events with its sister shows Chicago Fire and Chicago Med. While nothing has been officially announced for Season 13, insiders suggest that at least one crossover event is planned for mid-season, likely involving a major case that pulls in all three departments.
These crossovers have always been fan favorites — not just for the action-packed drama, but for the character interactions and emotional continuity across the One Chicago universe. With cast changes across all three shows, this could be an opportunity to introduce new dynamics and test how the next generation of characters interact under pressure. Despite the departure of longtime characters and behind-the-scenes changes, fan interest in Chicago P.D. remains sky-high. The show continues to trend on social media weekly, with clips, theories, and “best of” edits circulating widely on TikTok and Instagram.
The core of the show — its gritty realism, complex characters, and morally murky storytelling — still resonates. As procedural dramas across networks struggle to retain viewership, Chicago P.D. has managed to grow its streaming audience, particularly among younger viewers discovering the series on Peacock and international platforms. Season 13 has the opportunity to push the show in bold new directions, while still honoring the legacy that’s made it a staple of network television for over a decade.
Fans have been vocal about what they hope Season 13 delivers:
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A proper goodbye for Hailey Upton, including a possible off-screen reunion with Halstead
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Stronger storylines for Atwater and Torres, who often get overshadowed by other characters
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More personal stakes, including deeper insight into Voight’s world post-Upton
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Meaningful team dynamics, especially after the emotional trauma Burgess and Ruzek faced in previous seasons
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A balance between character arcs and thrilling police investigations
If the show can meet these expectations, Season 13 could become one of the most impactful and transformative seasons yet.
As Chicago P.D. prepares to launch its 13th season, it finds itself at a crossroads — mourning the loss of a central character, reconfiguring team dynamics, and bracing for the next big chapter in the Intelligence Unit’s journey. But if history has proven anything, it’s that Chicago P.D. knows how to evolve without losing its edge. With new stories to tell, unresolved tension to explore, and a loyal fanbase ready to follow, Season 13 has all the ingredients for another unforgettable ride.
