Chicago P.D. Says Goodbye to Major New Character After Just One Season — Here’s Why Fans Are Stunned

Chicago P.D. just dropped a bombshell: a major new character introduced in Season 12 is already out — and fans are completely blindsided. After just one season on the force, Officer Noah Andrews (played by rising star Jesse Lee Harris) will not be returning for Season 13.

Introduced as a sharp, fresh recruit to the Intelligence Unit, Andrews quickly became a fan-favorite. His sharp instincts, raw vulnerability, and evolving dynamic with both Atwater and Upton brought a welcome new energy to the team. Fans were especially invested in his potential as a long-term character — which makes his sudden departure all the more shocking.

So why the abrupt exit? According to insiders, the decision was driven by creative direction. Showrunners reportedly felt the character’s arc had “run its course” for now and want to refocus Season 13 on the core squad amid other major cast shakeups.

Still, that hasn’t stopped viewers from voicing their frustration online. Many are calling the exit “a waste of potential” and questioning why Chicago P.D. would build up a new character just to write him out. Others are speculating that Andrews could return in the future — possibly in a crossover with Chicago Fire or Chicago Med.

Jesse Lee Harris has not yet publicly commented on his departure, but fans are already flooding his social media with appreciation for the depth he brought to the role in such a short time.

With several veterans rumored to be nearing the end of their runs and Season 13 already promising high-stakes changes, this early goodbye sets the tone for an unpredictable season ahead.