TODAY’S PAPER | July 02, 2026 | EPAPER

Original Chicago P.D. star LaRoyce Hawkins exits after 14 seasons

LaRoyce Hawkins will leave Chicago P.D. in season 14, ending his long-running role as Kevin Atwater on NBC


Pop Culture & Art July 02, 2026 1 min read

LaRoyce Hawkins is set to leave Chicago P.D. during its upcoming 14th season, bringing an end to his long-running portrayal of Officer Kevin Atwater on the NBC police drama.

The actor has been part of the series since its debut in 2014, making him one of the show's original cast members.

According to multiple industry reports, Hawkins' departure will take place early in season 14, although details surrounding Atwater's exit remain under wraps. Neither NBC nor the show's producers have revealed how the character's storyline will conclude.

Throughout his time on Chicago P.D., Hawkins also appeared in crossover episodes with fellow One Chicago series Chicago Fire and Chicago Med, helping establish Kevin Atwater as one of the franchise's most recognisable characters. His departure marks another significant cast change for the long-running procedural.

Outside the NBC franchise, Hawkins has expanded his acting career with roles in Marvel's Ironheart, Power Book IV: Force and Ballers.

Despite the upcoming cast change, NBC continues to show confidence in the One Chicago franchise. Earlier this year, the network renewed all three dramas, with Chicago P.D. returning for season 14, Chicago Fire for season 15 and Chicago Med for season 12. The trio remains a cornerstone of NBC's Wednesday-night schedule and continues to deliver strong television ratings.

Season 14 of Chicago P.D. is scheduled to premiere on October 7 as part of NBC's 2026–27 television lineup. While fans await details about Kevin Atwater's farewell, Hawkins' exit signals the end of an era for one of the series' longest-serving cast members.

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