Kevin Atwater has long been the moral compass of Chicago P.D.’s Intelligence Unit—and now, he might finally be getting the promotion fans believe he’s earned. In a recent press interview, LaRoyce Hawkins, who has portrayed Atwater since the show’s beginning, dropped tantalizing hints that Season 13 could bring big changes for his character: a possible step up in rank.
“Atwater has made tough calls that cost him, but they’ve also made him a leader,” Hawkins shared. And fans agree. From standing up to institutional bias to protecting communities often overlooked by the badge, Atwater has consistently shown courage, not just in the field—but in principle.
With Hank Voight becoming more reflective in recent seasons, Atwater’s role as the team’s ethical anchor is gaining more weight. Hawkins noted, “Voight is changing, and as that happens, there’s space opening up for new voices—voices like Atwater’s. Ones rooted in accountability, not just instinct.”
Should the promotion happen, it would mark a seismic shift in the unit’s internal power structure. Intelligence has long operated under Voight’s iron-willed leadership, but a more democratic, collaborative approach could change how the team functions—and who calls the shots during high-stakes cases. Hawkins teased this evolution without giving it all away: “The show is exploring what it means to lead differently. Not every leader needs to be feared to be followed.”
Fans have taken to social media to cheer the idea of Atwater finally rising in the ranks. For years, he’s been one of the show’s most steady and respected characters—handling morally complex situations with empathy, integrity, and strength. A promotion would be more than just a career move—it would be a reward for years of loyalty and sacrifice.
But as with anything in Chicago P.D., promotions don’t come without challenges. Would the rest of the team support Atwater in a new leadership role? Could tensions emerge as traditional power dynamics shift? And how will Voight truly handle stepping back, even slightly?
Whether or not Atwater’s promotion officially happens this season, one thing is clear: Chicago P.D. is setting the stage for a new kind of leadership—one that reflects the real-world complexity of policing today. And Kevin Atwater may be exactly the voice Intelligence needs moving forward.
