For over a decade, Chicago P.D. has delivered gritty police drama, morally complex characters, and emotional storylines that keep fans coming back season after season. But in a twist that no one saw coming, one of the show’s brightest stars, age 35, has confirmed their sudden departure — sending ripples through the One Chicago universe. The exit was not just a professional shift but also a deeply personal decision — one the actor describes as part of their ongoing journey of evolution.
In an exclusive interview, the actor — whose identity has now become synonymous with a fan-favorite character — opened up about the motivations behind the choice to step away. “I’ve evolved — as an actor, as a person, and in what I want to do next,” they shared. “It wasn’t easy. Leaving Chicago P.D. felt like leaving home, but sometimes growth demands discomfort.”
Viewers were blindsided when the Season 12 finale hinted that the character, once considered central to Intelligence, was on the brink of a life-altering decision. Social media exploded with speculation. Would the character die? Transfer? Go undercover indefinitely? By the time the credits rolled, the truth was clear — the exit was real, and it wasn’t just a storyline twist. Showrunners later confirmed it was a permanent departure. And the fandom? Heartbroken.
Their departure wasn’t fueled by conflict or dissatisfaction, but rather by a deep need for reinvention. “I don’t want to play the same character forever. I want to stretch, to stumble, to take risks. And to do that, sometimes you have to walk away from what’s safe.” That honesty resonated with many fans, who appreciated the vulnerability and maturity in the statement. The actor also emphasized how much they still love and respect the team behind the scenes. “This cast is family. I will always root for them.”
The writers of Chicago P.D. were reportedly given ample notice, allowing them to craft an emotional and powerful sendoff that felt organic. Instead of opting for tragedy, they chose a quieter, more introspective exit — fitting for a character who always wrestled with morality and purpose. “This wasn’t about shock value,” said one producer. “It was about honoring the journey this character had been on, and reflecting the real-life complexity of choosing a new path.” Indeed, the final scenes were laced with poetic weight: a quiet moment at the precinct, a knowing glance from Voight, and a final walk down the station’s iconic hallway. No grand speeches. Just closure.
As Chicago P.D. gears up for its 13th season, this major exit has left both a void and an opportunity. The Intelligence Unit has always been a rotating team of strong personalities, but the loss of this particular character will be felt deeply. The show’s creators are reportedly exploring two options: introducing a brand-new character with a background in cybercrime or bringing back a familiar face who previously left under complicated circumstances. Either way, the chemistry of the unit is about to shift dramatically.
What’s more, the emotional ripple effect among remaining characters — particularly Kim Burgess, Kevin Atwater, and Hank Voight — is expected to fuel major arcs in the upcoming season. “Voight takes every departure personally,” said the showrunner. “This one will test him more than most.” Though tight-lipped on specific new roles, the actor did confirm that exciting opportunities are already in motion. “There are a few projects I can’t talk about just yet — but they’re very different from anything I’ve done before,” they said, smiling. “And that’s the point. I don’t want to be put in a box.”
Rumors are swirling about a streaming deal with a major platform, with speculation pointing to a role in a psychological thriller series currently in pre-production. Fans are also rallying for their inclusion in upcoming franchise expansions like Law & Order: Organized Crime or even a return to the Chicago universe in a limited guest arc.
Unsurprisingly, the response from the Chicago P.D. fandom has been emotional. Hashtags like #ThankYou[CharacterName] and #OneChicagoForever have been trending, with fans posting tributes, fan art, and tearful goodbyes. “I watched them grow from a hesitant rookie to a bold leader,” one fan wrote on Reddit. “They brought so much heart to the show. It won’t be the same.” Even co-stars chimed in. One longtime cast member posted: “Watching you leave is bittersweet. I’m so proud of the person and actor you’ve become. Go light up the world.”
