LaRoyce Hawkins exits Chicago P.D. after 14 seasons

LaRoyce Hawkins has officially exited Chicago P.D. after a 14-year run as a series regular. His final appearance in the role of Officer Kevin Atwater aired on Wednesday, October 14, in the Season 14 episode titled "Don't Blink."

In the episode, Atwater decides to leave the Chicago Police Department following a shooting that nearly cost him his life. While investigating a series of burglaries involving gaming machines, a suspect shot Atwater, but his bulletproof vest absorbed the impact. The close call, combined with the recent birth of his son, Malcolm, prompted Atwater to reassess the risks and demands of his job.

Instead of pursuing a promotion within the department, Atwater considers a teaching position at the police academy in Atlanta. He hopes to spend more time raising his son and with his girlfriend, Tasha. Before making his decision, Atwater discussed the potential move with Tasha, who reminded him that they had planned to build their life together in Chicago and had only recently welcomed their baby.

After the episode aired, Hawkins shared a video in his Instagram stories expressing his gratitude to the fans. "Thank you. Thank you for being there for me. Thank you for supporting the show. Thank you for the energy, the enthusiasm towards Chicago P.D. Thank you," he said.

Jesse Lee Soffer, who previously exited the series in Season 10, directed the final episode. Soffer shared a photo of Hawkins on social media, writing, "I can't believe it's been 14 seasons man. I had the honor and the pleasure of directing @laroycehawkins in his last episode of PD and it airs tonight. He absolutely kills it! Congrats brother. Love you mucho." Hawkins also shared a photo of Soffer, calling him a "better brother on that battlefield."