Chicago PD renewed for season 12 after shocking cliffhanger episode

Finally! We recently crossed the halfway point of Chicago PD's eleventh season, and there was some concern on the part of fans that the show wouldn't be renewed by NBC. Networks cut several shows in the wake of the Hollywood strikes, including long-running procedurals like Blue Bloods (which is set to end after the current season).

TV Line confirmed the Chicago PD renewal, which also included one season extensions for Chicago Med and Chicago Fire. While there had previously been multi-season renewal deals for the franchise in the past, NBC is continuing a trend they established last year where they appear to be taking things one season at a time.

Chicago PD earned a single season renewal

The renewal could not have come at a better time, because the most recent episode, "The Living and the Dead", took some major creative swings.

Not only did the episode end with the IU not being able to bring a serial killer to justice, but it ended with Noah (Bobby Hagan), a teen that Hank Voight (Jason Beghe) had sworn to protect, being found dead.

It's the sort of devastating event that is going to have long term repercussions on the show and the characters (especially Voight), so we're relieved to know that Chicago PD will be around long enough to capitalize on it.

Renewal means an IU without Upton

The renewal means that fans will get to see what happens after the season 11 finale, which has been teased by actor Jason Beghe as one of the most explosive in PD history. Beghe told TV Insider that he rarely likes to hype up episodes, but insisted that there will be lots "surprises" and twists that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.

It would be have pretty frustrating to have such an wild finish to a season without being able to see how it impacts the characters moving forward. The renewal also means that there will be an IU post Hailey Upton (Tracy Spiridakos). The character is leaving the show in season 11, but there was an odd limbo stage where it was unclear if the show itself would end at the same time.

Chicago PD now have the daunting task of replacing such a beloved character. Good problem, if you ask us!