It’s been over a season since Jesse Lee Soffer’s departure from Chicago P.D., and let’s be honest—it still doesn’t feel right. Jay Halstead was a cornerstone of the Intelligence Unit, a fan-favorite character, and a major part of the show’s heart and soul. While Chicago P.D. has managed to keep up the intensity without him, there’s no denying that Halstead’s absence has left a huge void.
So, hear me out: here are **five solid reasons why Jesse Lee Soffer’s Jay Halstead needs to return to Chicago P.D.—sooner rather than later.
1. The Intelligence Unit Isn’t the Same Without Him
Let’s be real—the team isn’t operating at full strength without Halstead. He wasn’t just another cop; he was Voight’s right-hand man, the team’s moral compass, and a tactical genius in the field. His dynamic with characters like Hailey Upton, Hank Voight, and Kevin Atwater brought depth to the show’s storytelling.
While Torres (Benjamin Levy Aguilar) and Petrovic (Bojana Novakovic) have been welcome additions, no one has truly filled Halstead’s shoes. His return would reignite the Intelligence Unit’s chemistry and bring back the perfect balance of heart and intensity.
2. His Exit Felt Rushed and Unfinished
Halstead’s departure in Season 10 felt way too abrupt for a character who had been a series regular for nearly a decade. Fans barely had time to process his decision to leave for Bolivia, and his strained goodbye with Hailey Upton left more questions than answers.
Since then, there’s been almost no update on what he’s doing, which feels unrealistic given his deep ties to the team. If he were to return, even briefly, it would give fans the closure they deserve—or the comeback they’ve been hoping for.
3. Hailey Upton Needs Him
It’s no secret that Upton has been struggling ever since Halstead left. Their relationship was one of the most compelling storylines in recent seasons, and his sudden departure shattered her emotionally. She’s tried to hold it together, but it’s clear that she still loves him and is hurting.
A Halstead return—whether to rekindle their romance, provide closure, or even lead to an epic reunion—would be a game-changer. Their love story deserved better, and bringing him back would finally allow them to have a real resolution.
4. He’s a Chicago P.D. Icon
Jesse Lee Soffer wasn’t just a cast member; he was a fan favorite and an essential part of Chicago P.D.’s identity. For nine seasons, Halstead was the guy fans could always count on—tough but fair, loyal but not afraid to challenge Voight’s questionable methods.
Characters like Halstead don’t just disappear forever. Bringing him back would not only boost fan excitement but also honor his legacy in the show. Even if it’s just for a multi-episode arc or a major crossover event, Halstead’s return would be a massive win for longtime viewers.
5. The Show Needs a Veteran Leader
With Halstead gone, Voight is more isolated than ever, and the team lacks a true second-in-command. While Upton and Ruzek have stepped up, neither has fully filled the leadership void Halstead left behind. He was the perfect blend of level-headed reasoning and tactical brilliance—someone who could challenge Voight while still being fiercely loyal to the team.
If Chicago P.D. is looking for a way to shake things up in Season 12, what better way than by bringing back one of its strongest, most respected leaders?
Will Halstead Ever Return?
Jesse Lee Soffer has already made his way back to Chicago P.D. once—as a director. Could that mean he’s open to an on-screen return? Fans certainly hope so. In the One Chicago universe, no one is ever really gone for good (just ask Adam Ruzek, who has survived multiple near-death experiences). Halstead’s return would bring much-needed closure, reignite old dynamics, and restore a crucial piece of what made Chicago P.D. so great. So, NBC, it’s time to make it happen—we need Halstead back!
