LaRoyce Hawkins is a name synonymous with talent, resilience, and authenticity. Known for his role as Kevin Atwater on NBC’s “Chicago PD,” Hawkins has captivated audiences for over a decade. However, his journey extends far beyond television, as he continues to explore new creative avenues, including the Marvel Universe and his passion for poetry. In an exclusive interview on “Sway in the Morning,” Hawkins opened up about his career, his vision for storytelling, and the importance of legacy. Here’s what he had to share.
13 Seasons Strong: A Milestone Worth Celebrating
Thirteen seasons on a hit TV series is no small feat, especially for an actor in Hollywood’s fast-paced, ever-changing landscape. Reflecting on his journey with “Chicago PD,” Hawkins shared, “I feel like we’re just getting started. When I first joined, my family and I were nervous. Representing as the one Black character among a predominantly white cast, I wasn’t sure how long I’d last. Now, 13 seasons later, I’m proud of what we’ve built.”
Hawkins’ longevity in the series has allowed him to evolve both as an actor and as a person. “I’m still excited to go to work and learn every day. Each season, I pick up something new and apply it to my craft. It never gets monotonous because I’m always growing,” he explained.
Fatherhood: A Catalyst for Change
Fatherhood has profoundly shaped Hawkins’ outlook on life and his creative pursuits. His 8-year-old son has been a source of inspiration, pushing him to think deeper about legacy and representation. “Having my son changed everything for me. It made me want to tell stories that preserve Black boy joy, protect Black women, and uplift the image of Black men,” he shared.
Speaking about his son’s budding interests, Hawkins revealed, “He’s got the light in him. Whether it’s sports or performing, we try to support him in whatever he loves. He even calls himself Swag Daddy—his rap name!” The playful yet meaningful bond between Hawkins and his son highlights the importance of nurturing young Black imagination, a theme central to his work.
Joining Marvel’s ‘Ironheart’: Black Imagination Takes the Spotlight
Hawkins steps into the Marvel Universe with his role in “Ironheart,” a Disney+ series that showcases the brilliance of Riri Williams, a young Black female inventor. “Riri doesn’t have the same resources as Tony Stark, but she does the most with the least. That’s a testament to Black imagination and resilience,” Hawkins said.
Hawkins drew inspiration for his role from personal experiences, including time spent with his cousin, an auto mechanic. “I wanted to embody the spirit of someone who can take things apart to truly understand them. This series celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of Black minds, especially young Black girls,” he emphasized.
Poetry and the Power of Words
Beyond acting, Hawkins is a passionate poet, using his platform to inspire others through spoken word. He recently launched the “Right On, Write On” poetry tour, blending comedy, storytelling, and performance to connect with audiences. “Poetry has always been a way for me to listen and process the world differently. It’s about inspiring people to write their own legacy, just as my grandfather’s favorite cousin used to say, ‘Right on, right on,’” Hawkins explained.
During the interview, Hawkins treated listeners to a live performance of his original poem, “Genesis 3, Part 1.” The piece delivered layers of meaning, exploring themes of humanity, legacy, and self-awareness. “I love sharing poetry because it allows me to connect with people on a deeper level,” he said.
A Commitment to Uplifting Black Voices
Throughout the conversation, Hawkins returned to the importance of telling stories that uplift and empower. Whether through his work on television, his poetry, or his role in the Marvel Universe, he remains committed to showcasing the breadth and depth of Black experiences.
“Black imagination is often underfunded and underrecognized, yet we continue to thrive. I want to create stories that inspire young Black minds to dream bigger and feel supported in their journeys,” Hawkins stated passionately.
LaRoyce Hawkins embodies the spirit of a true artist—dedicated, versatile, and deeply connected to his purpose. From his groundbreaking run on “Chicago PD” to his exciting new role in Marvel’s “Ironheart,” Hawkins is proving that his journey is only just beginning. As he continues to explore new creative avenues, he remains a powerful voice for change and inspiration.
What do you think about LaRoyce Hawkins’ journey and his commitment to uplifting Black voices? Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to check out “Ironheart” on Disney+!
