Chicago PD fans are a bit worried after the latest episode of the show aired on NBC. And, they have finally addressed the elephant in the room. Or, in this case, the missing detective.
Recently, Season 12, Episode 6 of this NBC series left viewers scratching their heads. Detective Kevin Atwater, played by LaRoyce Hawkins, was noticeably absent. This has left fans speculating about his exit.
After 12 seasons, Hawkins has become a Chicago PD icon. His portrayal of Atwater has been praised and also respected. He is a detective who balances busting bad guys with raising his siblings.
But with no sign of him in the latest episode, fans are worried. Is Atwater hanging up his badge for good? Well, the answer is no. There is no confirmed information about his exit from Chicago PD.
Read on to know more.
Is Detective Kevin Atwater missing in action from Chicago PD?
The episode, titled Pawns, was all about Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati). She finally landed her long-awaited promotion to detective. Her moment in the spotlight was definitely well-deserved.
But fans couldn’t help but notice something missing. Atwater was nowhere to be seen.
And let’s be honest. The panic is understandable. Past cast members like Elias Koteas (Alvin Olinsky) and Tracy Spiridakos (Hailey Upton) have already said goodbye to the show.
It’s no wonder that fans jumped to conclusions. Plus, with the recent addition (and quick exit) of Victoria Cartagena’s Emily Martel, viewers have been bracing themselves for more cast shakeups.
But hold your horses! Unlike those exits, there’s no concrete evidence, or even a whisper from LaRoyce Hawkins or the showrunners that suggest he’s leaving Chicago PD.
Atwater is an important character in Chicago PD
If you’re worried about Atwater’s absence, let’s take a deep breath and remember the importance of Hawkins’ character in the show.
Over the years, he’s been a constant presence. And unlike Elias Koteas’ tragic exit at the end of Season 5, Hawkins’ character doesn’t seem to be headed for an on-screen death or abrupt goodbye.
Detective Kevin Atwater is a cornerstone of the Chicago PD squad. Losing him would leave a massive hole in the series. And fans would likely riot (well, probably).
Interestingly, Atwater made a cameo on Chicago Med earlier in Season 12, during Episode 2. This was his first appearance on the sister show since Season 8. This had fans buzzing. They wondered if his temporary shift to Med explained his absence from PD.
To look at the brighter side of things, this crossover move shows Hawkins’ versatility above everything. It shows his deep connection to the One Chicago universe. Rather than signaling an exit, it seems to reinforce his importance in the franchise.
So, should fans be worried?
The short answer is no.
As of now, no signs point to LaRoyce Hawkins exiting the show. Sure, his absence raised a few eyebrows. But it’s likely just a plot-driven break rather than a goodbye.
The show has a history of keeping fans on their toes. But when a major character exits, it’s usually a well-advertised, dramatic event.
Hawkins’ quiet absence doesn’t fit that mold. Plus, with no statements from Hawkins or NBC hinting at alternate future plans, it’s safe to say Atwater’s storyline is not over.
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