In Chicago P.D., fans have watched Officer Kevin Atwater (played by LaRoyce Hawkins) navigate a series of challenges throughout the show’s run.
Atwater has often been depicted as a man deeply committed to his work, which has frequently come at the cost of personal relationships. He’s had flings and romantic interests throughout the series, but none have ever stuck or seemed to fit. However, in a recent interview, Hawkins discussed how Atwater’s new relationship might be different—and how it could bring a refreshing layer to the character.
According to Hawkins, what makes this new relationship unique is the way it challenges Atwater to open up. Historically, Atwater has been guarded, especially when it comes to his personal life. His work in law enforcement, particularly as a Black man, adds another layer of complexity to his romantic relationships. Hawkins explained that Atwater’s new love interest might be the person who helps him find balance between his demanding job and personal happiness.
Chicago P.D. has often intertwined its characters’ professional and personal lives, using romantic relationships as a means to explore deeper emotional issues. For Atwater, the stakes are high in both areas. The show has already hinted at the tension between his duty as a police officer and the reality of living as a Black man in Chicago, making any romantic entanglement a potential flashpoint for further development.
Hawkins mentioned that while previous relationships have been fleeting or fraught with difficulties, this one feels different because it taps into something deeper within Atwater. It has the potential to shape his character in a way we haven’t seen before, allowing fans to witness another side of him. Atwater’s internal struggle has always been about balancing his responsibilities to his community with the dangers that come from being a police officer. In recent seasons, his commitment to justice has been tested, and his relationships have suffered as a result. This new love interest could represent an opportunity for Atwater to find peace and companionship outside of the high-pressure environment of the Intelligence Unit.
Hawkins also teased that viewers could expect some emotional highs and lows as this new romance unfolds. It’s unlikely that the road will be entirely smooth, but the potential for growth, both for Atwater and his partner, makes this storyline one to watch closely.
For longtime fans of Chicago P.D., Atwater’s love life has always felt like an underdeveloped part of his character arc. With this new relationship, there’s hope that the writers will finally give Atwater the chance to experience a meaningful and lasting romance. Hawkins expressed excitement about what this new storyline could mean for his character’s future, both in terms of personal happiness and emotional depth.
While it’s unclear how the relationship will evolve, Hawkins’ enthusiasm suggests that Atwater’s new love interest could provide the emotional support he has long needed. If the relationship continues to develop positively, it might mark a turning point for the character, allowing him to explore new dimensions beyond his tough exterior.
