The highly anticipated return of the One Chicago franchise, encompassing Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and most notably, Chicago PD, in the Fall of 2025, brings with it a wave of excitement and trepidation for dedicated fans. As network television continues its fight for viewership, the stakes have been demonstrably raised across these interconnected dramas. This often translates into narrative choices that promise heightened tension and, at times, heartbreaking farewells to long-term characters. The Chicago One universe has carved out a distinct identity through its dramatic storytelling and a compelling ensemble cast, and when these elements converge to irrevocably alter the lives of beloved characters, the impact on the audience is profound and lasting.

Amidst speculation about potential returns and the evolution of its ever-changing cast, Chicago PD is undeniably aiming for longevity. Such an ambition necessitates pivotal changes and, occasionally, the painful removal of core figures. Among the most missed characters by fans is Alvin Olinsky, affectionately known as Al, whose absence has been felt keenly for quite some time. His departure left a void that the series has since grappled with, prompting many to revisit the fundamental questions: what truly happened to Al, and why did the actor, Elias Koteas, ultimately leave the series?

Alvin Olinsky’s journey within the One Chicago universe began not on Chicago PD, but with his introduction to the Chicago Fire team in Season 2, Episode 9, titled ‘You Will Hurt Him,’ back in 2013. This initial appearance laid the groundwork for a character who would quickly become indispensable, particularly within the gritty landscape of Chicago PD. Olinsky’s presence extended beyond a single show, featuring in an episode of Chicago Justice in 2017, and three episodes of Chicago Med between 2016 and 2018. However, it was his 107 episodes on Chicago PD, from 2014 until his tragic physical exit in 2018, that truly cemented his legacy, far surpassing his four appearances on Chicago Fire where he first debuted. As Hank Voight’s trusted confidant and a deeply loyal member of the Intelligence Unit, Al became the quiet, steadfast moral compass for many, offering unwavering support and a grizzled wisdom born from years on the force.

However, all good things, even in the enduring world of serialized television, must come to an end. Al’s final physical appearance as a recurring character within the One Chicago universe occurred in Chicago PD Season 5, Episode 22, “Homecoming.” This episode marked a devastating turning point, as Olinsky, arrested for a murder he did not commit but helped cover up for Voight, was tragically stabbed in prison. Despite being rushed into surgery in a desperate attempt to save his life, he ultimately succumbed to his injuries on the operating table. This brutal and sudden loss sent shockwaves through the Intelligence Unit and left an indelible mark on the series.

The immediate aftermath of Al’s death plunged Chicago PD into one of its darkest arcs. Hank Voight, consumed by a profound sense of guilt and rage, embarked on a relentless and morally ambiguous quest for revenge, ultimately tracking down and murdering Al’s killer. This period of intense grief and vigilante justice not only redefined Voight’s character but also forced the entire team to confront the ethical compromises inherent in their work. The conflict surrounding Al’s fate was palpable, as the Intelligence Unit grappled with their collective guilt and the agonizing realization that a dedicated hero had been cruelly failed by the very system he had fought so long to protect. For many viewers, this wasn’t the heroic send-off Olinsky deserved after years of loyal service, making his departure a contentious and deeply unsatisfying moment for the fanbase. The lingering questions of justice and the heavy toll of their dangerous profession continued to resonate long after the immediate crisis passed, shaping subsequent storylines and character development.

Regarding Elias Koteas’s departure, it’s a common misconception that actors in long-running series choose to leave of their own accord. While performers who have played critical, ongoing roles often feel ready to move on due to the demanding schedules and the desire for new artistic challenges, Koteas’s exit was, in fact, a creative decision made by the showrunners. Long-term roles in serialized network television can be exceptionally draining, leaving little room for other projects and sometimes leading to typecasting. While Koteas, a true professional, delivered powerful final scenes, his departure was driven by the narrative direction the series intended to take rather than a personal choice to step away. Since his time on Chicago PD, Koteas has continued to build on his diverse filmography, appearing in projects like The Silent Planet as Theodore, expanding his voice acting work in American Dad, and taking on roles in Janet Planet, The Baker, and Guilty Party. He is also slated to appear in an upcoming thriller titled The Block, indicating a steady continuation of his career beyond the Chicago One universe.

Alvin Olinsky’s death is emblematic of a continuing trend within the Chicago One franchise, where the departure of major characters serves as a potent tool for maintaining narrative tension and realism. While fans often yearn for the return of beloved figures, the finality of Al’s death was central to its dramatic impact. Although Al did make a poignant, non-physical return in 2024 as an apparition in the mind of another character—a testament to his enduring presence and the character’s profound influence—a physical resurrection is highly improbable. Chicago PD has skillfully utilized visions, flashbacks, and other narrative devices to bring back older cast members in unexpected ways, often employing these tools during moments when a ratings boost or a deeper emotional resonance is desired. However, to physically bring back a character whose death was so meticulously crafted and dramatically impactful would risk undermining the very stakes and emotional integrity that the series strives to maintain. The magic of procedural television, with its occasional instances of twins, clones, or even fakeouts, likely cannot undo a death as brutal and narratively significant as Al’s without nullifying the profound consequences that followed.

Ultimately, Alvin Olinsky’s legacy on Chicago PD and the wider Chicago One universe remains indelible. His death served as a powerful, albeit painful, pivot point, showcasing the series’ willingness to confront the harsh realities and moral ambiguities of law enforcement. While fans continue to miss his quiet strength and unwavering loyalty, his story exemplifies how profound character developments, even tragic ones, are integral to the franchise’s compelling storytelling. As the Chicago One shows prepare for their next season, Olinsky’s enduring shadow reminds us that these dramatic departures, though difficult for the audience, are crucial for keeping the narrative vibrant, the stakes high, and the emotional core of the series resonating deeply, thus ensuring its continued longevity in the competitive landscape of network television.