In the ever-evolving world of Chicago P.D., change is the only constant. Following a jaw-dropping exit that left fans reeling, NBC’s gritty police procedural is wasting no time in shaking things up. Now, with Season 13 looming on the horizon, the show has officially added a brand-new series regular—and fans are buzzing with excitement and curiosity. Who is this fresh face stepping into the 21st District, and how will their arrival reshape the dynamics of the Intelligence Unit?

Let’s break down everything we know so far about the newest addition, the actor stepping into the role, and what this means for the future of Chicago P.D.

A Shocking Goodbye

Before we welcome the new, we must address the departure that shook the fandom to its core. Earlier this year, Chicago P.D. said farewell to Tracy Spiridakos, who played Detective Hailey Upton since Season 4. Spiridakos’ emotional departure was built up over several episodes, with her character navigating grief, isolation, and a sense of being lost after the disappearance of her husband, Jay Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer).

Fans watched Upton unravel over time, ultimately making the heartbreaking decision to leave the Intelligence Unit in search of healing. Her final episode was one of the most emotionally charged in the show’s history and marked the end of a powerful chapter. With her exit, a void was left—not just in the team, but in the hearts of fans who had grown deeply attached to her.

Who Is Luciane Buchanan?

Luciane Buchanan is no stranger to intense, action-packed roles. Her breakout performance in The Night Agent showcased her ability to handle complex emotions while navigating fast-paced plots. Her casting in Chicago P.D. is a major win for the show, and fans have already taken to social media to express their excitement.

Buchanan brings with her not just acting chops, but a fresh perspective. “We wanted someone who could go toe-to-toe with Voight, but also bring a kind of quiet vulnerability,” said Sigan. “Luciane blew us away during auditions. She understood the character of Martel immediately.”

What We Know About Detective Isabel Martel

Martel’s backstory is layered with mystery. We know she’s coming from a stint in the Organized Crime Division, where she was involved in several high-profile undercover operations. Sources close to the show tease that she may still be dealing with unresolved trauma from a case gone wrong—one that may follow her to Intelligence.

Her no-nonsense attitude and tactical expertise will make her a valuable asset to the team. However, her tendency to go rogue and her reluctance to open up emotionally could lead to friction with Voight and Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger), who both know the importance of trust and loyalty in high-stakes operations.

Martel also reportedly shares a complicated history with an existing member of the Chicago P.D. universe—possibly a former flame or partner—which promises to bring drama and intrigue as Season 13 unfolds.

A Fresh Start for the Franchise

The addition of Buchanan and her character signals a bold new chapter for Chicago P.D. After 12 seasons, the series continues to reinvent itself without losing the gritty realism that made it a hit. Martel’s arrival allows the writers to explore new themes—like trauma recovery, distrust within the ranks, and the cost of undercover work—while still delivering the intense action fans crave.

“Introducing Martel isn’t about replacing Upton,” said executive producer Rick Eid. “It’s about exploring how a team that’s been through hell adapts when someone new arrives with their own scars.”

What Fans Are Saying

Reactions online have been overwhelmingly positive. One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Luciane Buchanan joining Chicago P.D. is a genius move! I can already tell Martel’s going to be a badass.” Another commented, “If she brings even half the energy she had in The Night Agent, Season 13 is going to be wild.” Fan forums are already filled with speculation about Martel’s possible alliances and tensions. Will she clash with Voight? Can she be trusted? Is she hiding something from her past?

Detective Martel will make her first appearance in the Season 13 premiere, set to air in early 2025 (exact date TBD). The episode will reportedly feature a major case involving a city-wide narcotics ring, providing Martel with the perfect high-stakes introduction. The writers are setting up a season that promises plenty of moral gray areas, tactical showdowns, and emotional breakthroughs—all with Martel at the center of much of the drama.

With Upton gone, Halstead still MIA, and new dynamics forming, Chicago P.D. is entering a new era. Detective Isabel Martel isn’t just another recruit—she’s a catalyst for change. Her arrival gives the writers new creative room, the cast a fresh dynamic, and fans a reason to keep watching. Change is never easy, especially for a long-running show like Chicago P.D., but if early reactions are any indication, Martel might just be exactly what the show needs to keep its pulse racing into the next decade.