Hailey Upton’s departure at the end of Chicago PD season 11 marked the end of an era, leaving fans to wonder if the Intelligence Unit (IU) could ever find someone to fill her shoes. Enter Kiana Cook, portrayed by Toya Turner—a bold, action-oriented officer who has already made her mark in the IU. Unlike Upton, Cook brings a fresh perspective and a physical, high-energy approach to law enforcement, making her an exciting addition to the team and a worthy successor.
Kiana Cook’s Unique Introduction
Cook’s arrival in Chicago PD was not without drama. Initially, it seemed as though Emily Martel, played by Victoria Cartagena, would take on the role left by Upton. However, in a shocking twist, Martel was killed in the same episode in which she debuted. This narrative misdirection allowed Cook to step into the spotlight without being directly compared to Upton or overshadowed by Martel’s legacy.
Cook’s early interactions have already started to establish her as a standout character. She has a mentor-protégé relationship with Adam Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger) and a strong camaraderie with Dante Torres (Benjamin Levy Aguilar). These dynamics not only enrich her character but also weave her seamlessly into the fabric of the IU.
As noted by Chicago PD showrunner Gwen Sigan during a TV Line interview, Cook is “not a rookie,” a fact that sets her apart from many previous recruits. Her prior experience in patrol and other divisions brings an invaluable depth to her character and makes her a competent and confident addition to the team.
Action-Driven and Fearless
Where Upton excelled as an investigator and interrogator, Cook thrives in action-oriented scenarios. Her hands-on approach to policing—what Sigan describes as a willingness “to get messy” and “run and gun”—is a stark contrast to Upton’s methodical style. This dynamic energy not only diversifies the IU’s skill set but also injects new life into the show’s action sequences.
Cook’s background in patrol has honed her ability to make split-second decisions and navigate high-pressure situations. She doesn’t shy away from danger, making her a natural fit for the intense, fast-paced environment of the IU. Her willingness to jump into the fray adds an unpredictable, thrilling edge to the team’s operations.
This shift in style reflects the writers’ efforts to keep the show fresh as it enters its twelfth season. By leaning into Cook’s physicality and expertise, Chicago PD maintains its gritty tone while exploring new storytelling opportunities.
What the Future Holds for Kiana Cook
Although Cook is still being integrated into the IU, she has already garnered intrigue and anticipation among fans. Her backstory, skills, and relationships with established team members create a solid foundation for character development. As Chicago PD continues, Cook’s evolution will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the show’s narrative direction.
Cook’s fearless approach, combined with her field experience, makes her an asset the IU can’t afford to lose. Her character represents a departure from the show’s traditional archetypes, offering viewers a fresh perspective on what it means to be an effective officer in Chicago’s most intense precinct.
As Chicago PD moves further into its second decade, the question remains: how will Kiana Cook’s presence continue to redefine the IU? Will her high-risk, action-oriented style clash with more traditional methods, or will it prove to be exactly what the team needs? One thing is certain—Kiana Cook is here to stay, and fans can’t wait to see what she does next.
More about Chicago P.D Series
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