Chicago PD fans are reeling from the news that Tracy Spiridakos will be leaving the series after Season 11. What does this mean for Hailey Upton and how will she depart? Here’s what we know!
First appearing near the end of Season 4 of Chicago PD, Hailey Upton was a detective for the gangs unit of the Chicago police. She worked with the team to stop a set of crooks and, impressed by her skills, Hank recruited her for the Intelligence Unit. That made Tracy Spirdakos a regular when Season 5 began.
Upton had a tough time at first with the team, including a relationship with Ruzek. They split up, with Upton eventually hooking up regularly with Jay Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer). Upton got a bit darker with the team, handling her father having a heart attack and other issues.
Season 10 was a huge one for Upton. When Jay killed a suspect, he elected to leave Chicago and rejoin the army. Upton at first was supportive, but as time went on, she began growing worried, especially when learning Jay had re-upped his time without telling her.
Upton got heavily involved in a case involving a police captain’s son tied into a slavery ring. That had her risking both her life and career, with the Season 10 finale having Upton aiding the squad in stopping a deadly domestic terrorist.
So, with all that, how will the show handle Upton departing?
How can Upton leave Chicago PD?
Right now, Chicago PD Season 11 is in limbo due to the SAG strike. The writers are back, meaning they can start crafting the storyline for Upton’s departure and hopefully build to it.
A great plan would be if Soffer returns as Halstead and he and Upton reunite before leaving the force together. They can also have Upton decide to transfer to a new department or even leave Chicago for a job with the feds. However, fans are hopeful for Upton to get a good exit rather than kill the character off.
At least the writers will have Season 11 (shortened as it will be due to the long strike delay) to prepare for Upton’s departure and hopefully craft a way to send her off that does justice to such a long-standing character for Chicago PD and make Season 11 more memorable.
Chicago PD is available to stream on Peacock.