Jesse Lee Soffer has been a beloved face on Chicago P.D., where he played the intense and dedicated Detective Jay Halstead for nearly a decade.
He admitted that while Halstead’s street-smart detective skills might have prepared him for high-pressure situations, FBI: International takes things to another level. The cross-border investigations demand diplomacy, cultural understanding, and an ability to navigate unfamiliar territories — skills that Halstead didn’t necessarily need while patrolling Chicago’s streets. However, the foundation of playing an intelligent and capable officer remains, allowing Soffer to bring a level of comfort and expertise to his new role.
He also touched on how different the environment feels on set. While Chicago P.D.’s Intelligence Unit had a close-knit, family-like dynamic, FBI: International involves a more diverse team working in a fast-paced, multinational environment. Soffer’s excitement about this new role shines through as he embraces the opportunity to expand his horizons and develop his character in unexpected ways.
Of course, no conversation about Jesse Lee Soffer’s career would be complete without mentioning Tracy Spiridakos, who plays Detective Hailey Upton, Halstead’s wife on Chicago P.D.. Their on-screen relationship became a fan favorite, with many viewers emotionally invested in their journey as a couple. Soffer’s departure from Chicago P.D. left a lingering question: Will Upton and Halstead ever reunite, even if it’s just for a brief moment?
When asked about a potential Upton-Halstead reunion, Soffer smiled. “It would be interesting, wouldn’t it?” he mused. “I don’t know how that would happen, but I wouldn’t say no to it. We had such a great dynamic on Chicago P.D., and the idea of seeing where their relationship is now is something I think a lot of people are curious about.”
As Soffer continues his journey on FBI: International, it’s clear that he’s not leaving Halstead entirely behind. His years on Chicago P.D. have helped him grow as an actor, and that experience informs his current work. However, Soffer is embracing the new challenges that come with a more global perspective on crime-solving. For fans of his work, this marks an exciting chapter in his career, offering fresh opportunities to see him in action while keeping the door open for future reunions with the characters that defined his past.
In many ways, Soffer’s move to FBI: International mirrors the character evolution that Halstead himself might have taken had he stayed on the force. But now, Soffer is on a new path, eager to explore different facets of law enforcement — and perhaps reunite with Upton in a way that would make fans everywhere cheer.
