LaRoyce Hawkins, an original cast member and a key figure in the Intelligence unit of Chicago P.D., has finished filming his final episodes for the series. His departure marks the end of an era for the NBC drama, which is set to return for its 14th season on Wednesday, October 7.
LaRoyce Hawkins Departs Chicago P.D. After 13 Seasons
Chicago P.D. is preparing to bid farewell to an original cast member as the NBC drama returns for its 14th season.
LaRoyce Hawkins, who has been a vital part of the Intelligence unit, will be leaving the series. This departure comes after a significant run, with Hawkins having completed his filming for a few final episodes.
He is expected to appear in a couple of episodes to properly conclude the storyline for his character, Officer Kevin Atwater. Sheila R. Brown, the Executive Director of the CineCares Foundation, shared on August 14 that Hawkins filmed his last day, celebrating his 13 seasons on the show.
Brown expressed that Hawkins’ hard work had paid off and that he would be missed as Kevin Atwater, wishing him well in his future endeavors.
Chicago P.D. Season 14 Premiere Details
The highly anticipated 14th season of Chicago P.D. is scheduled to premiere on Wednesday, October 7, at 10 p.m. ET. The drama will air on NBC, with new episodes also available for streaming on Peacock the following day. This premiere date places Chicago P.D. within the network’s traditional fall lineup.
The season premiere is part of the “One Chicago” block, which also includes Chicago Med and Chicago Fire. Chicago Med will begin its 12th season at 8 p.m.
ET, followed by Chicago Fire kicking off its 15th season at 9 p.m. ET, before Chicago P.D. begins its new season at 10/9c. This shared premiere date signifies the continuation of the interconnected universe.
Farewell Celebration for LaRoyce Hawkins
The cast and crew of Chicago P.D. gathered to celebrate La Royce Hawkins after he filmed his final scenes. On August 15, actress Marina Squerciati shared photos from the send-off, which included both current and former cast members. She described the event as a farewell to “one of the best,” tagging Hawkins in her post.
Among those present to honor Hawkins were Squerciati, Jason Beghe, Jesse Lee Soffer, Tracy Spiridakos, Miranda Rae Mayo, Arienne Mandi, and Benjamin Levy Aguilar. The celebration marked the end of Hawkins’ tenure on the show, acknowledging his contributions over 13 seasons. The event highlighted the camaraderie and respect among the cast and crew.
How Officer Kevin Atwater Will Be Written Out
The exact method by which Officer Kevin Atwater’s storyline will conclude remains unclear. However, it is speculated that his departure will be connected to his impending fatherhood with fellow officer Tasha Fox, played by Karen Obilom. This suggests that Atwater is unlikely to be killed off the show.
Leaving the door open for potential future appearances is a common narrative strategy. This approach mirrors the successful returns of characters like Jesse Lee Soffer and Tracy Spiridakos in recent seasons, particularly during the three-show crossover event. Such a decision would allow for flexibility and guest appearances in later storylines.
Key Facts About LaRoyce Hawkins’ Departure and Season 14
- La Royce Hawkins, who played Officer Kevin Atwater, is leaving Chicago P.D. after 13 seasons.
- He will appear in a few final episodes to wrap up his character’s storyline in Season 14.
- Season 14 of Chicago P.D. premieres on Wednesday, October 7, at 10 p.m. ET on NBC.
- A farewell celebration was held for Hawkins on August 15, attended by current and former cast members.
- It is anticipated that Atwater will not be killed off, possibly leaving room for future guest appearances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is La Royce Hawkins leaving Chicago P.D.?
La Royce Hawkins is departing Chicago P.D. after 13 seasons to pursue new opportunities. He has finished filming his final episodes, which will serve to conclude his character, Officer Kevin Atwater’s, storyline.
When does Chicago P.D. Season 14 premiere?
Chicago P.D. Season 14 is set to premiere on Wednesday, October 7, at 10 p.m. ET on NBC. Episodes will also be available to stream on Peacock the following day.
How did the Chicago P.D. cast say goodbye to LaRoyce Hawkins?
The cast of Chicago P.D. held a farewell celebration for La Royce Hawkins on August 15. They shared photos and tributes on social media, expressing their appreciation for his work and camaraderie over the years.
How will Kevin Atwater’s storyline conclude?
Details on how Kevin Atwater’s storyline will conclude are not yet fully revealed. It is expected that he will not be killed off, and his departure may be linked to his character becoming a father.
The departure of La Royce Hawkins and the conclusion of Officer Kevin Atwater’s story will undoubtedly shape the dynamics of the Intelligence unit in Season 14. The season’s premiere on Wednesday, October 7, will offer the first glimpse into how the team adjusts to the absence of one of its long-standing members.
