LaRoyce Hawkins is one of the standout actors in the world of television, known for his captivating role as Detective Kevin Atwater on NBC’s Chicago P.D. The series, part of the larger Chicago franchise, has been a major hit, offering viewers a unique glimpse into the lives of the Chicago Police Department and its complex officers. With his dynamic portrayal of Atwater, Hawkins has earned a significant fanbase and a place among the industry’s most respected actors.
As his popularity grows, many fans and entertainment industry followers are curious about LaRoyce Hawkins’ salary per episode. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Hawkins’ career, explore how his earnings are structured, and break down factors that influence the salary of a television star like him. Along the way, we’ll also consider the broader industry trends and how Hawkins fits into the bigger picture of entertainment salaries.
LaRoyce Hawkins: A Star in the Making
Born on May 4, 1988, in Harvey, Illinois, LaRoyce Hawkins was always drawn to the arts. His love for performing began at a young age, and he was soon making a name for himself in local theater productions. After graduating from the prestigious Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Hawkins moved to Chicago to pursue a career in acting. His dedication paid off when he landed the role of Detective Kevin Atwater in Chicago P.D., which would become a defining moment in his career.
Since joining Chicago P.D. in 2014, Hawkins’ portrayal of Atwater has been lauded for its authenticity, depth, and emotional range. Over the years, his character has evolved from a rookie officer to a seasoned detective, grappling with the challenges of police work and personal dilemmas. This evolution has not only kept fans engaged but has also contributed to Hawkins’ increasing visibility and career growth.
Hawkins’ success is not limited to his role on Chicago P.D.. He has also appeared in other notable projects, including The Chi, a Showtime series that delves into the lives of people living in Chicago’s South Side. His versatility as an actor has allowed him to take on a wide variety of roles, further establishing his reputation in Hollywood.
LaRoyce Hawkins Salary per Episode: Understanding the Numbers
As with many television stars, LaRoyce Hawkins’ salary per episode varies depending on several factors. While exact figures are not always publicly available, estimates can be made based on industry standards, the success of the show, and Hawkins’ level of fame.
1. The Influence of Chicago P.D.’s Success
Chicago P.D. is part of a highly successful television franchise that includes Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Chicago Justice (which was canceled after one season). The franchise has been a significant success for NBC, which means that the network can afford to pay its leading actors competitive salaries.
The show has a dedicated fan base, and its ratings consistently perform well, especially for a procedural drama. This success translates to a higher demand for the actors involved, which directly affects their pay. Hawkins, being a central character in the series, likely commands a substantial salary for his work on the show.
2. The Impact of Role and Screen Time
In television, salaries are often influenced by the size and importance of a role. While Hawkins is not the lead actor in Chicago P.D. (the role of Detective Hank Voight, played by Jason Beghe, is central to the story), Atwater is still an essential part of the show. His evolving storyline has garnered significant attention, and as a result, his compensation would be higher than that of supporting or guest characters.
Actors who are featured regularly and whose characters have significant arcs can demand a higher salary. In Hawkins’ case, his character has grown over the years, and his presence on screen has increased. His contribution to the series’ success would make him eligible for higher pay per episode, especially as the show has progressed through multiple seasons.
3. Industry Salary Standards
While precise numbers for Hawkins’ salary are difficult to pin down, there are industry standards that can offer insight into what actors of his caliber might earn per episode. For example, on average, actors on network television shows earn between $20,000 to $100,000 per episode, depending on the show’s success, the actor’s prominence, and other factors.
For actors like LaRoyce Hawkins, who have been part of a long-running hit show and are in a central role, salaries tend to be on the higher end of this spectrum. It is estimated that Hawkins likely earns somewhere in the range of $50,000 to $75,000 per episode. This figure takes into account the widespread success of Chicago P.D., his central role in the series, and his growing star power within the entertainment industry.
Additional Factors that Influence Hawkins’ Salary
1. Contract Negotiations
When it comes to television salaries, much depends on the contract negotiation between the actor and the network. Some actors sign long-term contracts that guarantee a set salary for each episode, while others may renegotiate their pay based on the success of the show or other external factors. In Hawkins’ case, as Chicago P.D. continues to thrive, it is likely that he has had the opportunity to renegotiate his salary at certain intervals to reflect his growing importance on the show.
2. Guest Appearances and Crossovers
LaRoyce Hawkins is also part of the larger Chicago franchise, meaning his character frequently crosses over into other shows like Chicago Fire and Chicago Med. These guest appearances and crossovers can boost his salary, as actors are often compensated for their time on other shows within a shared universe. These appearances not only increase his visibility but also offer additional compensation per episode.
3. Brand Endorsements and Other Ventures
Aside from his acting career, Hawkins is involved in various other ventures that may contribute to his overall earnings. Brand endorsements, public appearances, and social media influence can all add to an actor’s income. While the exact details of Hawkins’ endorsement deals are not publicly known, his growing fame and positive public image make him a candidate for such opportunities.
Comparing LaRoyce Hawkins to Other Actors
When discussing LaRoyce Hawkins’ salary per episode, it’s helpful to compare him to other actors in similar roles. On television shows like Chicago P.D., salaries for actors often depend on their experience, the longevity of the show, and their prominence within the narrative.
For instance, Jason Beghe, the lead actor portraying Detective Hank Voight, likely earns a higher salary than Hawkins, as lead actors typically command higher rates. However, supporting cast members on Chicago P.D., such as Jesse Lee Soffer (Jay Halstead) and Patrick John Flueger (Adam Ruzek), are probably in a similar pay range to Hawkins.
In comparison to actors on other successful network procedural dramas, Hawkins’ salary is competitive. For example, actors on NCIS, Law & Order: SVU, and Criminal Minds have similar salary ranges, with lead actors on those shows earning upwards of $100,000 per episode, while supporting actors typically earn less. Hawkins’ consistent role in Chicago P.D. positions him well within this pay range.
The Future of LaRoyce Hawkins’ Career and Earnings
LaRoyce Hawkins’ career is on an upward trajectory, and his salary per episode reflects this growth. As Chicago P.D. continues to attract a loyal audience, Hawkins’ role will likely become even more significant, which could translate into increased earnings. Additionally, his expanding body of work, including his involvement in The Chi, suggests that Hawkins will continue to diversify his portfolio of projects.
Given the longevity of the Chicago franchise and Hawkins’ growing reputation, it is likely that he will continue to command a high salary in future seasons of Chicago P.D.. Moreover, as he becomes more involved in other projects, his income could increase even further.
Conclusion
LaRoyce Hawkins is a talented actor whose portrayal of Detective Kevin Atwater on Chicago P.D. has earned him widespread recognition and respect. His salary per episode is influenced by a variety of factors, including the success of the show, his role in the series, and his growing star power. While exact numbers are difficult to confirm, it is safe to say that Hawkins likely earns between $50,000 and $75,000 per episode. As his career continues to flourish, there is little doubt that his earning potential will increase, solidifying his position as one of Hollywood’s rising stars.
Whether he’s solving cases on Chicago P.D., starring in The Chi, or pursuing other ventures, LaRoyce Hawkins has proven himself to be a versatile and promising actor with a bright future ahead. His journey from a local theater actor to a household name is an inspiring testament to hard work, dedication, and the power of great storytelling.
