After months of speculation, Jesse Lee Soffer has officially made his return to the Dick Wolf universe — but not as Detective Jay Halstead. The beloved Chicago P.D. alum, who exited the NBC hit in Season 10, is back on television in FBI: International, joining the cast as Special Agent Wes Mitchell. His comeback has sparked a wave of excitement, nostalgia, and curiosity among fans who have followed his career since his early days in the One Chicago franchise.
For years, Soffer’s portrayal of Halstead made him one of Chicago P.D.’s most adored characters. Viewers admired his moral integrity, complicated romance with Hailey Upton, and unwavering loyalty to Intelligence. When he departed the series in 2022, fans were left heartbroken and hoping for his eventual return. Now, with his reappearance in another Dick Wolf show, fans are both thrilled and intrigued to see him in a different light.
Social media lit up moments after the FBI: International trailer dropped. Many fans couldn’t help but draw comparisons between Wes Mitchell and Jay Halstead, wondering whether the two characters share any similarities. “It feels like Halstead joined the FBI instead of leaving the force,” one fan joked on X (formerly Twitter). Others expressed excitement that Soffer is staying within the Wolf Entertainment family, with one comment reading, “Once a cop, always a cop — we’re just glad to have Jesse back.”
In FBI: International, Soffer’s Wes Mitchell is introduced as a sharp, disciplined agent who quickly becomes a crucial member of the Fly Team. Though details about his backstory are still under wraps, early reports suggest his character will bring a mix of intensity and quiet confidence — qualities that longtime Chicago P.D. fans know Soffer can deliver effortlessly.
Behind the scenes, Soffer’s decision to return to television wasn’t rushed. After leaving Chicago P.D., he took time to explore directing, even helming an episode of the series he once starred in. His move to FBI: International seems both a natural progression and a homecoming — allowing him to remain part of the Wolf Entertainment legacy while challenging himself creatively.
Critics and fans alike are calling his casting “a masterstroke,” noting that Soffer’s charisma and grounded performances add depth to every project he touches. Whether or not his new role will feature crossover moments with Chicago P.D. remains uncertain, but the possibility has fans buzzing with theories.
As FBI: International continues to expand its global narrative, Jesse Lee Soffer’s addition promises to bring renewed energy to the series. One thing is certain: wherever he goes, Chicago P.D. fans will be watching — and rooting for him every step of the way.
