Who does Amanda Payton play on Chicago PD?

Amanda Payton made a splash on the latest episode of Chicago PD. Her character had terrific chemistry with Kevin Atwater (LaRoyce Hawkins), and brought about conflicts that the grizzled officer rarely has to contend with.

Payton was at the heart of the “Burnside” storyline, and the end of the episode all but confirms that she’s going to stick around throughout season 9. Those curious to learn more about the actress’ career and her character needn’t look further, as we have all the details.

Here’s a primer on Amanda Payton and her character’s future in the One Chicago universe.

Amanda Payton plays Celeste on Chicago PD

Payton plays Celeste, a teacher who also dabbles in painting and political art. She meets Atwater at a club and they hit it off immediately. They spend the night at Celeste’s apartment, and when Atwater wakes up he discovers a wall filled with activist and anti-police imagery. He’s impressed by her talent, but he’s also reluctant to share his profession, so he keeps it under wraps.

Over the course of the episode, Celeste and Atwater get closer romantically, though Celeste has no idea that Atwater is using her connections within the Burnside community to find the culprits behind a drive thru shooting. It sets up a troubling dynamic, but it’s evident from Atwater’s actions that he has genuine feelings for Celeste.

Who is Kevin Atwater’s girlfriend on Chicago PD?

Amanda Payton may be familiar to some viewers, and that’s because she’s been a consistent presence on network TV since 2008. She made her small screen debut on Numb3rs, before going on to have guest spots on The Big Bang Theory, Workaholics, and NCIS.

She also had a supporting role in the drama series Trial & Error opposite John Lithgow and Jayma Mays. On film, Payton is best known for her turns in the acclaimed indie Beginners and the horror flick The Perfect Host (both 2010).

Watch One Chicago on fuboTV: Watch over 67 live sports and entertainment channels with a 7-day FREE trial!

Chicago PD showrunner Rick Eid teased a complicated love interest for Atwater in season 9, and barring any major twists, we think this is it. Celeste is going to cause Atwater to reconsider his status as a police officer and as a man, especially if he continues to keep his job a secret.

Regardless of what happens, we can’t wait to see what Payton does with the character.

For the latest Chicago PD season 9 spoilers and news, plus more on the entire series, follow the Chicago PD category at One Chicago Center.