Since its debut in 2014, Chicago P.D. has remained one of NBC’s strongest crime dramas, winning over millions of viewers with its intense storytelling and emotionally complex characters. At the heart of the show’s success is its powerful ensemble cast—the men and women who bring the Intelligence Unit of the Chicago Police Department to life. These characters aren’t just fictional representations of law enforcement; they’ve grown to become familiar, beloved, and sometimes controversial figures in modern television.
Across more than a decade on the air, Chicago P.D. has successfully combined character-driven arcs with high-stakes policing narratives. But what makes the series endure is the cast: a mixture of long-standing veterans who define the show’s identity, newer actors who inject fresh energy, and a handful of memorable faces who have moved on but left an undeniable mark.
This in-depth guide explores the Chicago P.D. cast, both past and present—highlighting their roles, evolution, and impact on the One Chicago universe.
Hank Voight – Jason Beghe: The Unshakeable Leader of Intelligence
No character embodies Chicago P.D. more than Sergeant Hank Voight, played by Jason Beghe. Rough-edged, intimidating, and morally gray, Voight is both respected and feared—qualities that Beghe portrays with stunning authenticity.
Voight is a complicated figure, often criticized for bending the rules yet praised for his fierce loyalty to his team and the city he aims to protect. His leadership is built on trust, instinct, and a long, painful history that continues to shape him. Over the years, viewers have watched Voight confront grief, loss, betrayal, and corruption. Through it all, Beghe’s grounding presence has anchored the series.
Behind the scenes, Beghe is known as one of the series’ founding cast members, appearing from the very first episode. His unwavering presence gives fans a sense of continuity, even as other cast members come and go. Voight’s character remains complex, evolving from a feared hard-liner to a more emotionally vulnerable leader who shoulders the weight of others’ mistakes.
Adam Ruzek – Patrick John Flueger: The Impulsive Yet Loyal Detective
Patrick John Flueger portrays Adam Ruzek, a character who was introduced as the unpolished but promising rookie and has since matured into one of Intelligence’s most reliable detectives.
Ruzek’s early seasons show him struggling to adjust to the demands of undercover operations, ethical dilemmas, and chaotic relationships. But the character’s evolution has been rewarding: today, Ruzek is known for his bravery, instincts, and ability to connect with victims and witnesses with sincerity.
His complicated romantic and professional bond with Kim Burgess has been a recurring highlight for fans, giving the show one of its strongest emotional cores. Their relationship, filled with on-again-off-again tension, co-parenting, heartbreak, and reconciliation, adds depth to the storytelling.
In recent news, Flueger is taking a temporary leave from Chicago P.D., leaving fans wondering how Ruzek’s absence will affect the Intelligence Unit. His departure highlights just how central he has become to the cast.
Kim Burgess – Marina Squerciati: The Heart of the Intelligence Unit
Few characters have experienced the kind of emotional and professional journey that Kim Burgess, portrayed by Marina Squerciati, has undergone. Starting as a patrol officer, Burgess initially struggled with self-doubt and the competitive nature of working her way up. Over time, she proved her worth, eventually earning her place in the prestigious Intelligence Unit.
Burgess is one of the most emotionally layered characters on the show. Her storylines have explored trauma, motherhood, resilience, and justice—often placing her at the center of some of the series’ most intense episodes. Fans admire her strength and vulnerability, and Squerciati’s performance consistently delivers authenticity.
Her relationship with Adam Ruzek continues to be one of Chicago P.D.’s most engaging arcs. Their shared journey of trust, heartbreak, and family responsibilities adds a deeply human element to a show often dominated by police action.
Kevin Atwater – LaRoyce Hawkins: The Moral Compass of the Team
LaRoyce Hawkins plays Kevin Atwater, a character whose growth has captivated long-time viewers. Atwater started as a lighthearted patrol officer, but his role evolved significantly as he transitioned to Intelligence.
Unlike some members of the unit, Atwater often represents the moral clarity others lack. He strives to do what is right—even when it comes at personal cost. His powerful storylines have tackled racial profiling, systemic injustices, and personal sacrifice, offering some of the show’s most moving episodes.
Hawkins’ charisma, emotional depth, and leadership on screen have made Atwater a standout character. Over time, he has become one of the strongest anchors of the cast, carrying episodes that explore real-world issues with nuance and compassion.
Trudy Platt – Amy Morton: The Backbone of the 21st District
Amy Morton’s portrayal of Sergeant Trudy Platt brings a perfect blend of sarcasm, compassion, and authority to the show. Though she works primarily at the front desk of the 21st District, her presence resonates throughout the entire series.
Platt is the person everyone can depend on—whether it’s guiding younger officers, offering tough love, or dispensing sharp-tongued advice. She brings humor into the show without detracting from its gravity, and her history as a former street cop gives her a deep understanding of the job’s challenges.
Morton’s commanding presence and quick wit make Platt a scene-stealing character, and she remains one of the most consistent and beloved performers in the cast.
Dante Torres – Benjamin Levy Aguilar: The Dynamic Newcomer
Benjamin Levy Aguilar joined the cast as Dante Torres, injecting fresh energy into the Intelligence Unit. Torres represents a new generation of policing: young, skilled, passionate, and sometimes conflicted about the blurred lines between justice and survival.
His character comes from a troubled past, giving him unique insight into Chicago’s streets. Torres’ struggle to reconcile his past with his role as an officer often results in gripping, emotionally charged episodes. Aguilar’s intense, thoughtful performance has made him a standout among the newer cast members.
Notable Former Cast Members Who Shaped the Series
While the current lineup is powerful, Chicago P.D. would not be what it is without the characters who left lasting impressions before departing the show.
Jay Halstead – Jesse Lee Soffer
Halstead’s arc—from military veteran to Intelligence detective and eventually leader-in-the-making—was central to the show’s identity. His departure marked a major shift, but his impact remains foundational.
Erin Lindsay – Sophia Bush
As one of the original main characters, Lindsay brought emotional depth and memorable storylines to the show. Her character’s exit in Season 4 left a noticeable gap, especially in Voight’s emotional world.
These former cast members continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans, and their storylines still influence current arcs.
New Additions and Ongoing Cast Changes
As with many long-running shows, Chicago P.D. continues to evolve. Recently, Arienne Mandi joined the cast as Eva Imani, a compelling new character whose arrival has sparked speculation and excitement among fans. Her introduction adds fresh dynamics, promising new storylines and shifts in the team’s chemistry.
Meanwhile, the temporary leave of Patrick John Flueger (Ruzek) has created a narrative opening that viewers are eager to see unfold. Such changes—though sometimes bittersweet—help keep the series vibrant and unpredictable.
Why the Cast of Chicago P.D. Works So Well
The strength of Chicago P.D. lies not just in its characters individually, but in the incredible ensemble dynamic they create together. Their chemistry is a carefully balanced mix of leadership, loyalty, conflict, humor, and emotional depth.
The cast excels because:
- Each character has a strong, distinct identity, yet they mesh seamlessly as a team.
- The actors deliver emotionally grounded performances, even in high-intensity episodes.
- The show allows for character evolution, giving actors room to explore layers beyond their introductions.
- Strong relationships (found family, romance, mentorship) make the drama feel personal, not just procedural.
- The diversity of experiences and backgrounds within the cast enriches the storytelling.
This dynamic keeps fans invested season after season.
The Evolution of the Chicago P.D. Cast Over the Years
From its early days with a smaller cast to the more expansive ensemble of today, Chicago P.D. has grown remarkably. Characters have come and gone, but each has played a role in shaping the show’s tone and direction.
The departures of major cast members like Sophia Bush and Jesse Lee Soffer marked new eras, while the arrival of fresh faces like Torres and Imani have revitalized the series. Through it all, core members—Voight, Burgess, Atwater, and Platt—have served as the backbone of the franchise.
This balance of consistency and evolution ensures that the show never becomes stagnant while maintaining the emotional foundation fans have grown attached to.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy of the Chicago P.D. Cast
As one of the standout entries in the One Chicago universe, Chicago P.D. owes much of its success to its extraordinary cast. These actors bring depth, realism, and humanity to stories about crime, justice, and the complexities of modern policing.
Whether it’s Voight’s unyielding leadership, Burgess’s emotional resilience, Atwater’s moral clarity, or Torres’s youthful fire, each member contributes something essential to the fabric of the show. Their performances continue to resonate with audiences across the world, proving that Chicago P.D. is far more than just another police drama—it is a character-driven masterpiece.
For fans who follow the series closely and those just diving in, understanding the cast provides richer insight into why Chicago P.D. remains a beloved staple of television drama.
Article Presented by Empire Magazines
FAQs – Chicago P.D. Cast
1. Who is the leader of the Chicago P.D. Intelligence Unit?
The Intelligence Unit is led by Sergeant Hank Voight, played by Jason Beghe. He has been the central figure of the show since Season 1 and is known for his tough, morally grey leadership style.
2. Which cast members have been on Chicago P.D. since the beginning?
Longstanding cast members include Jason Beghe (Hank Voight), Patrick John Flueger (Adam Ruzek), LaRoyce Hawkins (Kevin Atwater), and Amy Morton (Trudy Platt). Marina Squerciati joined shortly after but became one of the longest-running cast members as well.
3. Who recently left Chicago P.D.?
Jesse Lee Soffer, who played Jay Halstead, departed the show after Season 10. Patrick John Flueger (Adam Ruzek) is also currently on a temporary leave during Season 13.
4. Are there any new cast members in recent seasons?
Yes. Benjamin Levy Aguilar joined the cast as Dante Torres, and Arienne Mandi joined as Eva Imani, bringing new energy and storylines to the series.
5. Is Chicago P.D. part of the One Chicago franchise?
Absolutely. It is part of the larger One Chicago universe, which includes Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and crossovers with other NBC dramas.
6. Why did Jay Halstead leave Chicago P.D.?
The character’s exit was written as a reassignment to an Army task force. Actor Jesse Lee Soffer chose to leave the series to pursue other opportunities, including directing.
7. Are Kim Burgess and Adam Ruzek still together?
Their relationship has been on-and-off for several seasons, but they remain one of the series’ strongest emotional storylines. They also co-parent Makayla, continuing to keep their bond significant to the show’s narrative.
8. Is Chicago P.D. based on real police cases?
While not based on specific real-life cases, the show draws inspiration from real-world policing issues, including organized crime, gang activity, and community policing in Chicago.
9. How many seasons of Chicago P.D. are there?
As of 2025, Chicago P.D. has aired 13 seasons, with strong ratings and an active fan base that keeps it among NBC’s flagship dramas.
10. Where can I watch Chicago P.D.?
You can watch episodes on NBC, Peacock, and syndication channels that regularly air repeats of the series.
