**LaRoyce Hawkins Bids Farewell to ‘Chicago P.D.’ After 14-Year Tenure**
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After a commendable 14-year journey, LaRoyce Hawkins, known for his portrayal of Officer Kevin Atwater, has concluded his role as a series regular on the hit NBC show, “Chicago P.D.” His final appearance aired on Wednesday, October 14, marking an emotional chapter for both the actor and the series.
Hawkins, 38, took to social media to express his gratitude to fans, stating, “Thank you for being there for me,” a sentiment that resonated with many who have followed the series since its inception in 2014. During his time on the show, Hawkins’ character evolved from a patrol officer to a seasoned member of the Chicago Police Department, reflecting the dynamics of the narrative over the years.
The character’s final storyline played out in the episode titled “Don’t Blink,” part of the 14th season. In this episode, Atwater finds himself at a crossroads, contemplating his future after a near-fatal encounter while on duty. This incident, combined with the responsibilities of new fatherhood following the birth of his son, Malcolm, leads to a transformative decision regarding his career.
In a pivotal discussion with his superior, Hank Voight, played by Jason Beghe, Atwater weighs the prospect of a teaching position at the police academy in Atlanta. This potential career shift signifies both a personal and professional evolution for the long-serving officer, encapsulating the essence of his character’s journey.
Expressing his departure to his colleagues, Atwater said, “For the past 14 years, the 21st district has been my home. But raise a drink because I went ahead and made a new family, and it’s time we find a new home. From the heart, thank you.” Such heartfelt farewells encapsulate the strong bonds formed over the years within the show’s ensemble cast, highlighting the emotional gravity of leaving behind a legacy.
Showrunner Gwen Sigan provided insight into the creative decision behind this exit, describing it as “organic to the character.” She noted that Hawkins’ departure was carefully woven into the fabric of the storyline, allowing viewers to grasp the significance of Atwater’s choice. “We were lucky in that there are things that are so built-in that we could pull from and make a story out of,” she said.
Despite the emotional weight of saying goodbye, Sigan acknowledged that Hawkins would always have a place in the “Chicago P.D.” universe. The show embraces the idea of characters returning, as seen with previous crossovers and guest appearances, implying that Hawkins’ journey may not be entirely over.
Fans of Hawkins were treated to an intimate farewell as he shared a video message on Instagram. In it, he thanked his supporters for their enduring enthusiasm for the show and their unwavering dedication throughout his tenure. Such heartfelt exchanges underline the unique bond between the cast and the audience, which has cultivated a loyal following over the years.
Tributes from co-stars poured in following Hawkins’ final episode. Karen Obilom, who plays Tasha Fox, lauded Hawkins as a “Chicago legend” and reflected on their collaborative journey. She expressed her pride in working alongside him and emphasised the familial bonds created during their time together on set.
As “Chicago P.D.” continues its run, Hawkins’ departure leaves a notable gap within the narrative landscape. The series airs on Wednesdays at 10 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, with viewers eager to see how the story unfolds now that one of its key characters has moved on.
The culmination of Hawkins’ journey as Atwater signifies not just the end of an era for him, but also a reminder of the impact that long-running series have on their cast members and audience alike. As fans bid farewell to Officer Atwater, they hold onto the hope that Hawkins may return to the fold in the future, continuing his legacy in the world of “Chicago P.D.”