The world of Chicago P.D. has never shied away from big changes, whether in its storylines or its cast. As the long-running NBC drama prepares for a new chapter, one of the most talked-about shifts comes with the arrival of Eva Imani, a tough new officer with a military background. But her introduction has also raised the question for fans: who left when she came in?
The most noticeable departure is Officer Kiana Cook. Introduced in Season 12, Cook brought a new energy to the Intelligence Unit, quickly becoming part of the team dynamic. However, her run was short-lived. Ahead of the new season, it was confirmed that Cook would not be returning, leaving a vacancy in the unit and paving the way for Eva Imani to step in.
Imani is set to be unlike anyone the team has worked with before. Coming from a career as a soldier and private contractor, she carries both experience and a certain edge that makes her a compelling addition. She’s described as fearless, direct, and unafraid of confrontation—qualities that will no doubt cause friction as well as respect within the Intelligence Unit. Her arrival is expected to especially shake up the relationship with Sergeant Hank Voight, a leader known for his uncompromising style and preference for loyalty above all else.
But Cook isn’t the only character gone from the ranks. The Season 12 finale also saw the death of Deputy Chief Charlie Reid, a shocking development that has major repercussions for the team. Reid’s demise left the unit vulnerable, sparking changes at the top and leaving Voight and his detectives to pick up the pieces. His exit marks one of the show’s more dramatic departures in recent years, underscoring the unpredictable nature of life within Chicago P.D.’s universe.
With these exits, the Intelligence Unit enters the new season in a state of transition. Cook’s departure means the loss of a fresh perspective, while Reid’s death creates uncertainty in leadership and stability. Into this vacuum steps Eva Imani, whose outsider status could either fracture the team further or provide the spark needed to rebuild its unity. The show has a history of using cast changes to propel storytelling, and this shift is no different. Fans can expect the new season to explore the ripple effects of these departures, focusing on how the remaining members cope with loss, adapt to new leadership, and navigate the moral gray zones that have always defined Chicago P.D..
For longtime viewers, the revolving door of characters is nothing new, but each arrival and exit brings a fresh opportunity for reinvention. Eva Imani’s entry signals just that—a bold new direction, even as the show honors the impact of those who’ve left. In the end, Chicago P.D. continues to evolve, reminding audiences that the streets may stay dangerous, but the unit tasked with protecting them is never static. Change is inevitable—and often, it’s what keeps the drama alive.
