A Tearful Goodbye: Tracy Spiridakos Exits Chicago P.D.
After seven seasons of captivating audiences as the tough-as-nails Detective Hailey Upton, Tracy Spiridakos is bidding farewell to Chicago P.D. The news, confirmed by showrunner Gwen Sigan in January 2024, has sent ripples of sadness through the fandom and the cast alike.
Emotions Run High
LaRoyce Hawkins, who plays Officer Kevin Atwater, was visibly emotional when speaking about Spiridakos' departure. "It's very heartbreaking, to be honest with you," he confided. He described Spiridakos as a bright light on set, someone who brought joy and warmth to everyone around her. "She grew into all of our lives as, like, just a favorite," he said, his voice thick with emotion.
"She's really like a sister."
The sentiment was echoed by Jason Beghe, who plays the formidable Sergeant Hank Voight. He spoke about Spiridakos with deep affection and respect, acknowledging the profound impact she had on the show. "She will always be part of the shop," he asserted. "She's changed the show, and therefore even going forward, whether she's in the episode or not, she'll be part of the show.
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A New Chapter
While Spiridakos herself hasn't publicly addressed her exit, it seems she's following a trend of long-standing "One Chicago" actors moving on to new opportunities. The showrunners have acknowledged this trend, explaining that character departures are a natural part of keeping the franchise fresh and dynamic.
This season saw Upton finalize her divorce from Halstead, a storyline that resonated deeply with viewers.
Could this new chapter in her life be a catalyst for her departure from the Intelligence Unit? The arrival of SVU Detective Jo Petrovic also adds an intriguing layer of possibility.
Upton's Journey of Growth
Showrunner Gwen Sigan hinted at a transformative journey for Upton in Season 11. She spoke about exploring themes of personal growth and realizing that life doesn't always unfold as planned.
"It will be a fun ride for her," Sigan promised, teasing "interesting and new characters" that will challenge and shape Upton's path.
While the specifics of her exit remain shrouded in mystery, one thing is certain: Upton's final chapter on Chicago P.D. will be emotionally charged and unforgettable. As fans brace themselves for her departure, they can find solace in the knowledge that Spiridakos, much like her beloved character, is embarking on a new adventure, leaving behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and a touch of "that light" that captivated viewers for seven seasons.
