After more than a decade portraying the brave and complex Officer Kevin Atwater on Chicago P.D., LaRoyce Hawkins is promising that Season 13 will be unlike any other. In a recent interview, the fan-favorite actor opened up about what lies ahead for his character — and it sounds like Atwater’s journey is about to take a dramatic turn.
A Season of Transformation
According to Hawkins, this upcoming season will see Atwater facing difficult decisions, moral crossroads, and a personal reckoning that’s been building for years. “We’re really diving into who Kevin is at his core,” he revealed. “Not just as a cop, but as a man, as a Black man in law enforcement, and as someone who’s trying to build something bigger than himself.”
The actor teased that Atwater’s story will be more personal this season. While previous episodes have shown his internal struggle with policing and community loyalty, Season 13 is poised to bring those tensions to a boiling point.
A New Leadership Role?
Hawkins also hinted at a possible leadership role for Atwater within Intelligence. With changes rumbling through the department and Voight’s influence potentially waning, there’s room for someone new to step up — and fans are wondering if Atwater might be that person.
“There’s definitely going to be moments where Kevin has to lead,” Hawkins said. “And whether or not he wants to, the situations are going to demand it from him. It’s time.”
This would mark a significant evolution for the character, who has often stood as the team’s moral compass. Giving him more authority could mean more challenges — especially if he’s forced to confront corruption or tough choices from those he respects.
Personal Life Under the Spotlight
Beyond the badge, Atwater’s personal life will also be explored in new ways. Season 12 briefly touched on a possible romance, and Hawkins confirmed that we’ll see more of that thread.
“It’s important to show the other side of him — the vulnerable, loving side,” he explained. “We’ve seen so much of his strength in action, but now it’s time to see how he handles intimacy, trust, and emotional connection.”
Some fans are speculating about a deeper relationship arc, while others hope to see Atwater reconnect with his family or past allies.
The Bigger Picture: What Hawkins Hopes to Achieve
LaRoyce Hawkins is more than just a performer — he’s a thoughtful storyteller who sees his character as a vehicle for meaningful dialogue. “Atwater is a reflection of so many men in our world,” he said. “I don’t take that lightly. If we can tell his story with honesty, we’re contributing to something real.”
He also emphasized the importance of showing the humanity behind the uniform. “It’s easy to write a cop who always gets it right or wrong. But what about the ones who wrestle with the in-between? That’s where Kevin lives, and that’s where this season is going.”
As Chicago P.D. continues to evolve, it’s clear that Kevin Atwater is stepping into the spotlight in a big way. LaRoyce Hawkins’ passion for the character and the stories he wants to tell is palpable — and fans should buckle up for a season full of powerful moments, unexpected twists, and overdue growth.
“Season 13 is about elevation,” Hawkins concluded. “Kevin is rising — and the world around him is going to have to adjust.”
