LaRoyce Hawkins Exits Chicago P.D. After 13 Seasons

The character Kevin Atwater leaves the show to prioritize his family in a move that signals a shift for the series.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Television

LaRoyce Hawkins Exits Chicago P.D. After 13 Seasons

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Actor LaRoyce Hawkins has departed from the television show Chicago P.D. after serving as a series regular for 13 seasons. His character, Kevin Atwater, was written off the show to accept a new job in Atlanta.

Why it matters

The character Kevin Atwater made the decision to prioritize his family following the birth of his son and a personal health scare involving his child. The exit marks a significant cast change for the long-running procedural set in Chicago.

LaRoyce Hawkins, age 38, appeared as a series regular for 13 seasons on the program. Meanwhile, Andrea Newman concluded a 14-season run on Chicago Fire, with Victor Teran stepping in as her replacement.

The players

LaRoyce Hawkins

The 38-year-old actor served as a series regular on Chicago P.D. for 13 seasons before his departure.

Andrea Newman

The veteran showrunner departed Chicago Fire after a 14-season tenure on the production.

Victor Teran

He has replaced Andrea Newman as the showrunner for Chicago Fire.

Toya Turner

She left the Chicago P.D. cast following her tenure of one season.

The details

Kevin Atwater was written off the series following a storyline involving a shooting and his young son suffering an ear infection. The character opted to relocate to Atlanta to focus on his family life.

2023: Andrea Newman became the sole showrunner of Chicago Fire.
July 2024: Jeff Bader discussed One Chicago cast changes.
April 2026: Andrea Newman released a statement regarding her departure.
October 14, 2026: Kevin Atwater was written off Chicago P.D.

Industry Dynamics

The departure of LaRoyce Hawkins follows the high-profile 2026 exit of showrunner Andrea Newman from Chicago Fire. These shifts highlight a broader transition phase for the One Chicago franchise as long-term cast and crew members move on.

Viewers will no longer see Kevin Atwater as a regular cast member in future episodes of the series. The shift follows a series of public discussions held in 2024 regarding anticipated cast changes across the One Chicago lineup.

The takeaway

The departure of a long-standing cast member after 13 seasons highlights the natural evolution of procedural dramas. Fans may want to look for future casting announcements as the production adjusts its ensemble cast.