The Intelligence Unit has gained a new asset. FollowingToya Turner’s surprise departureas Officer Kiana Cook afterChicago P.D.Season 12, a new report confirms that her replacement has been named as the upcoming season approaches.Arienne Mandi, most recently seen inThe Night AgentSeason 2, is joiningChicago P.D.as a series regular. After Turner’s exit, reports indicated that the show was searching for a “loose cannon” character with a military background — a search that ultimately led to Mandi’s casting. She brings plenty of procedural experience to the role, with credits inNCIS,NCIS: Los Angeles, andHawaii Five-O. Mandi is also no stranger to theDick Wolfuniverse, having recently appeared inFBISeason 7.
Mandi will play a Chicago P.D. officer named Naomi Kerr, described asa former soldier and military contractor who thrives in high-pressure and dangerous situations. She is characterized as a “fearless outsider who keeps her cards close to the vest.” With credentials like that, she will make an immediate impact on the Intelligence Unit, especially as her arrival comes at a crucial point where Season 13 will see the unit deal with the aftermath ofChief Reid’s (Shawn Hatosy) death, which was cleverlyorchestrated by the unit boss, Hank Voight(Jason Beghe). However, the report notes that Mandi’s character descriptions are tentative and could be refined or altered as production on the new season ramps up.
Outside of her work on procedurals, Arienne Mandi is also recognized for her time inThe L Word: Generation Q, where she played the lead character, Dani Núñez. She recently played the lead in Tatami, a critically acclaimed political thriller that made its world premiere at the 80th Venice International Film Festival in September 2023. In addition to her new role onChicago P.D., Mandi will also play a new character in Season 2 of AppleTV+’s dark comedy series,Your Friends & Neighbors.
Why Did Toya Turner Exit Chicago P.D.?
Turner’s sudden departure fromChicago P.D.caught audiences off guard, as there had been no hint in the storyline that her character was on the way out. Kiana Cook had only recently joined the Intelligence Unit in Season 12, and her backstory was just beginning to unfold. Fans were especially eager to see more of her journey after the show teased her wealthy family background in a few episodes. Sadly, those hopes were cut short when it was confirmed that Turner would not be returning for Season 13. The reason behind her exit remains unclear, with no official explanation from the production. While viewers may never know what led to the decision, the show will now have to address her absence in the upcoming season. Inher farewell message, Turner simply thanked the cast, crew, and fans for their support and expressed excitement about future opportunities.
Chicago P.D.Season 13 will premiere on NBC this Fall at a yet undisclosed date. Past seasons are available to stream on Peacock.
Chicago P.D.
Source:Deadline
