The dramatic exit of Detective Hailey Upton’s partner, Detective Kevin Atwater’s close ally, and beloved character, Detective Reid, from Chicago P.D. shocked fans and left many questioning why the showrunners decided to kill off such a key figure. However, behind this heartbreaking choice lies a purposeful narrative that not only served the story’s emotional depth but also paved the way for a powerful and gripping new arc for Sergeant Hank Voight in Season 13.
The Unexpected Loss of Reid
Reid’s death was sudden and devastating. Viewers who had followed the Chicago P.D. series for years had grown attached to the character’s sharp intellect, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to justice. Killing off such a well-liked character was a bold move, and it instantly sent shockwaves through the fan community.
But TV dramas, especially police procedurals like Chicago P.D., often use tragic character departures as a catalyst for story development. Reid’s death wasn’t just about creating a shocking moment — it was about fundamentally changing the dynamics of the team and deepening the emotional stakes for the characters left behind.
How Reid’s Death Sets Up Voight’s Season 13 Storyline
Sergeant Hank Voight has always been a complex character — tough, sometimes morally ambiguous, but fiercely loyal to his team and dedicated to justice. Reid’s tragic death becomes a defining moment for Voight in Season 13, fueling a story filled with emotional depth, personal reflection, and renewed determination.
Reid’s death and its aftermath resonated strongly with fans and critics alike. While some viewers were saddened by the loss of a favorite character, many appreciated how the show used the event to deepen the story and character development.
Social media buzzed with discussions about the emotional weight of Reid’s exit, and reviewers praised the show’s courage to take bold storytelling risks. Voight’s portrayal in the wake of the tragedy was particularly lauded, with actor Jason Beghe delivering a performance that captured the character’s pain, strength, and complexity.
Reid’s Legacy on ‘Chicago P.D.’
Even though Reid is no longer part of the active cast, his presence lingers in Season 13 and beyond. His death serves as a reminder of the sacrifices law enforcement officers make every day. The show honors his legacy through the memories and motivations of the remaining characters, ensuring that his impact on the squad remains strong.
Moreover, Reid’s death opens narrative doors for introducing new characters and reshaping existing ones. It challenges the team to grow, adapt, and find new ways to honor their fallen comrade by continuing the fight for justice.
What This Means for the Future of ‘Chicago P.D.’
With Season 13 building off Reid’s death, the show is setting the stage for a darker, more emotionally charged storyline. Voight’s journey will be central, as viewers watch him navigate his grief while balancing the demands of leadership and the pursuit of justice.
This season promises to explore themes of loss, loyalty, redemption, and resilience — all while delivering the intense procedural drama that fans expect. Reid’s exit, while heartbreaking, has opened the door for new storytelling possibilities that can deepen the franchise’s emotional resonance and keep audiences engaged for years to come.
The decision to kill off Reid in Chicago P.D. was a difficult but deliberate one that ultimately served the larger narrative. It shocked viewers but also brought a new level of emotional depth to the show, particularly in shaping Sergeant Hank Voight’s character arc in Season 13. The aftermath of Reid’s death propels the series into a fresh chapter filled with powerful storytelling, complex character development, and heightened stakes.
For fans, this storyline is a reminder of the unpredictability of police dramas and the real emotional costs behind the badge. It also highlights the strength of Chicago P.D. as a show willing to tackle tough themes with honesty and grit.
As Season 13 unfolds, viewers will see how Reid’s death continues to influence every decision and relationship in the squad — making it one of the most compelling seasons yet.
