LaRoyce Hawkins. Lori Allen/NBC
LaRoyce Hawkins fully supported Jesse Lee Soffer, his former costar on Chicago P.D., in directing an episode for season 10 of the show - and it was a resounding success.
"He did an incredible job. Jesse is incredibly talented and experienced in the industry," Hawkins, 35, revealed exclusively to We on Monday, June 26, as he promoted his collaboration with SimpliSafe. "His keen eye for visuals and composition is truly exceptional."
The Illinois native, known for his role as Kevin Atwater on the NBC series, revealed that Soffer, aged 39, played a significant role as a "player-coach" during his time on the show. Soffer portrayed Jay Halstead for nine seasons before announcing his departure from the police drama in August 2022, which took effect at the start of season 10. However, he made a comeback to the set in early 2023, marking his directorial debut in March of that year.
"We immediately had confidence in him. We were aware of his passion for directing and eagerly anticipated seeing it come to life," Hawkins commented about his previous on-screen partner. "His episode, 'Deadlocked,' was fantastic. We can't wait to collaborate with him again."
While the South Side alum had the pleasure of seeing Soffer reunite with their P.D. castmates, he admitted that it can be challenging to adapt to changes when a member of the show departs. (Soffer's return marks the latest shift in the cast, following Sophia Bush's departure in 2017 and Elias Koteas's exit in 2018.)
"It can be quite challenging to handle because our show is deeply rooted in the concept of family. Once we establish a harmonious rhythm, synergy, and chemistry amongst ourselves, it becomes difficult to adapt when we lose a team member," Hawkins explained to Us on Monday. "Re-establishing that same rhythm with the remaining pieces becomes a daunting task."
He stated, "The main team has been together for a significant period. Therefore, we quickly regain our rhythm. However, I must admit that there is a slight dip in synergy every time this occurs."
The actor, known for his role in the TV show "North of the 10," emphasized that the P.D. cast forms a tight-knit "family," and this sense of camaraderie extends throughout the One Chicago collective as well.
"It's similar to visiting your Auntie's place and spending time with your cousin. It's all about family," Hawkins shared with Us, referring to his experience working with the casts of Chicago Fire and Chicago Med occasionally. "It feels comforting. You're in a familiar environment, yet you still need to seek permission before raiding the fridge. But once given the go-ahead, you're free to help yourself to anything you desire. It's like being part of one of those dynamic relationships."
In a playful manner, the NBC personality playfully commented on the "gentle sibling rivalry" that exists among all of Dick Wolf's Chicago-based shows.
Chicago Med is often joked about for never being exposed to the elements and for staying comfortable in their plush scrubs. Hawkins also mentioned that Fire is teased for being the most dramatic out of all the teams. But even the Chicago P.D. team is not exempt from the teasing. According to Hawkins, the other stars ask what it's like to have real stories, to which she finds humorous.
Hawkins reaffirmed the deep bond they share as a group, describing it as akin to the love between distant relatives. He further expressed the joy of being able to fight alongside each other, emphasizing the positive experiences it brings.
Preparing to join his P.D. family once again for season 11, Hawkins maintains his vigilant police instincts by partnering with SimpliSafe. Recently, the company introduced its 24/7 Live Guard Protection program, where a SimpliSafe employee actively monitors users' homes to prevent burglaries in real time.
LaRoyce Hawkins. Courtesy LaRoyce Hawkins/Instagram
SimpliSafe has developed the Smart Alarm Indoor Camera, featuring an alarm that instantly triggers when someone enters the area. To enhance security, a live representative can also communicate with the intruder. Hawkins expressed that she was drawn to SimpliSafe's commitment to simplifying the relationship between comfort and safety, as well as its user-friendly approach. She also praised the 24/7 availability and the seamless integration of the new product being launched. Overall, she found it to be the ideal combination.
Learn more about SimpliSafe’s newest products here. Catch Chicago P.D. on NBC when it returns in fall 2023 for season 11.
With reporting by Johnni Macke