The long-running police drama Chicago PD has launched its 13th season on NBC, drawing viewers back to the gritty streets of the Windy City with its signature blend of high-stakes investigations and personal turmoil. At the helm remains Jason Beghe, whose gravelly-voiced portrayal of Sergeant Hank Voight continues to anchor the series after more than a decade. Beghe, now 65, brings a weathered intensity to the role that has both captivated and occasionally divided audiences, his character's moral gray areas sparking endless debate.
Indeed, the season premiere, which aired just days ago, wasted no time in shaking up the Intelligence Unit. A notable departure came with the exit of Toya Turner's Kiana Cook, written off in a swift, somewhat abrupt fashion that left fans questioning the move. Turner, who joined in season 11, had added a fresh dynamic to the team, but showrunners opted for closure amid her real-life decision to leave. This isn't the first time Chicago PD has navigated cast changes; the franchise has seen its share of comings and goings, from Sophia Bush's early departure to more recent additions like Ben Levi Ross as Officer Russell Peluso.
However, core players are holding steady. Patrick John Flueger returns as the ever-reliable Officer Adam Ruzek, while Marina Squerciati's Kim Burgess navigates new challenges in her personal life. LaRoyce Hawkins as Kevin Atwater and Amy Morton as Trudy Platt provide the unit's backbone, their chemistry with Beghe as unshakeable as ever. Beghe himself has teased that Voight faces "a little crazy" this season, hinting at deeper explorations of his psyche amid escalating threats. Off-screen, Beghe's enduring commitment shines through—he's not just acting; he's practically synonymous with the show, having survived personal hurdles like a near-fatal 1999 car accident that reshaped his voice.
Moreover, the new season introduces subtle evolutions, including potential setups for Voight's eventual replacement, though Beghe shows no signs of stepping away. With episodes blending procedural thrills and emotional depth, Chicago PD maintains its pulse-pounding rhythm, even as it grapples with evolving narratives. One wonders how long Voight's iron-fisted leadership can sustain the unit's fragile balance.