The vibrant city of Chicago isn’t just the backdrop for NBC’s hit series Chicago P.D.—it’s an integral character in its own right. The show has captured the essence of the Windy City with its gripping crime stories, compelling characters, and a raw, authentic portrayal of law enforcement. So, when real-life Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel made an appearance alongside Chicago P.D. stars Marina Squerciati, Amy Morton, Jesse Lee Soffer, and LaRoyce Hawkins, it was a moment where fiction and reality seamlessly intertwined.
A Star-Studded Meeting of Power and Performance
The gathering brought together some of Chicago P.D.’s most beloved cast members with one of the most influential figures in Chicago’s political landscape. Rahm Emanuel, known for his passionate leadership and deep connection to the city, has always championed Chicago’s role as a major hub for television and film production. His administration played a key role in making Chicago an attractive destination for Hollywood, leading to the rise of successful shows like Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire, and Chicago Med.
The event wasn’t just about glitz and glamour—it was also a celebration of how Chicago P.D. has showcased the city’s rich history, diverse communities, and the hard work of its real-life first responders.
A Conversation About Chicago’s Role in Television
During the gathering, Rahm Emanuel spoke about the significance of having major television productions based in Chicago. “This show does more than just entertain—it brings jobs, tourism, and economic growth to our city,” he said. “We’re proud to have Chicago P.D. call this city home, and we appreciate how the series portrays our police force in a way that is both dramatic and deeply human.”
Marina Squerciati, who plays Officer Kim Burgess, echoed this sentiment. “Filming here in Chicago gives the show an authenticity that we just couldn’t replicate anywhere else. The city has a soul, and you feel it in every scene we shoot on the streets.”
Jesse Lee Soffer, known for his role as Detective Jay Halstead, spoke about how the people of Chicago have embraced the One Chicago universe. “The fans here are unlike anywhere else,” he said. “People come up to us all the time while we’re filming and share their personal stories about the city and their experiences with law enforcement. It makes what we do feel even more meaningful.”
Amy Morton and LaRoyce Hawkins Celebrate Chicago’s Influence
Veteran actress Amy Morton, who plays Desk Sergeant Trudy Platt, highlighted the importance of the show’s commitment to realism. “We’ve spent time talking to real Chicago police officers, listening to their stories, and understanding their challenges. That’s what makes Chicago P.D. so compelling—it’s not just about action, it’s about heart.”
Meanwhile, LaRoyce Hawkins, who plays Officer Kevin Atwater, shared a personal connection to the city. “I was born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago, so being part of this show is more than just a job—it’s a full-circle moment for me,” he said. “I love that we get to showcase the resilience and strength of Chicago’s communities.”
Rahm Emanuel’s Surprise Cameo?
With Chicago P.D. constantly bringing new faces into the mix, fans couldn’t help but speculate—would Mayor Rahm Emanuel ever make a cameo on the show? When asked, Emanuel laughed and said, “I think I’ll leave the acting to the professionals. But hey, if they ever need someone to play a tough city official, I might consider it!”
The cast members were quick to play along, with Marina Squerciati joking, “We could definitely use a tough-as-nails mayor in an upcoming episode—maybe one who isn’t afraid to shake things up at City Hall.”
A Celebration of Chicago’s Cultural Impact
This meeting of politics and primetime television served as a powerful reminder of the city’s growing influence in the entertainment industry. Chicago has long been a cultural epicenter, and shows like Chicago P.D. continue to shine a light on its stories, people, and spirit.
As the event wrapped up, Rahm Emanuel thanked the cast for their dedication to portraying Chicago authentically, while the actors expressed their gratitude for being able to film in a city that has embraced them so wholeheartedly.
With Chicago P.D. continuing to thrive, and Chicago cementing itself as a top-tier location for television production, this event was more than just a meeting—it was a celebration of storytelling, community, and the enduring power of a great city.
