Before becoming a staple on television, Jason Beghe had an extensive career in theater, where he honed his craft and earned critical acclaim.
In fact, he has received two Tony nominations, which is a significant achievement in the world of Broadway theater. His success on stage helped shape him into the actor we see on Chicago P.D., where his intense, commanding presence is a perfect fit for the role of Hank Voight, the tough, often morally ambiguous detective who runs the Intelligence Unit of the Chicago Police Department.
While his stage career was impressive, Beghe eventually made the transition to television, where his portrayal of Hank Voight became one of the central pillars of Chicago P.D.. Fans of the show may find it hard to reconcile Voight’s rough exterior with Beghe’s impressive stage background, but the actor’s depth and training in theater undoubtedly contribute to his portrayal of Voight. His ability to convey raw emotion, subtle nuances, and moments of vulnerability, all while maintaining a tough persona, is a direct result of the skills he developed on the stage.
Before landing the role of Voight, Beghe had an impressive array of roles across both film and television, but it is his work on Chicago P.D. that has brought him the most recognition. However, his impressive theater background continues to be an integral part of his identity as an actor. His Tony nominations underscore the high regard in which he is held in the theater community, a testament to his early training and enduring commitment to his craft.
Hank Voight is a character who requires an actor capable of balancing strength with vulnerability, a challenge that is made all the more impressive by Beghe’s stage experience. The emotional complexity that Beghe brings to the role of Voight is a direct result of the intricate and nuanced performances he delivered on stage. He is able to convey the internal struggles of Voight—the man who often hides his personal pain behind a hardened exterior—in a way that feels authentic and relatable to viewers.
This ability to tap into the emotional depths of his character is a hallmark of Beghe’s acting style, honed through years of experience on stage. His Tony nominations reflect his mastery of that craft, and they underscore the fact that while he may be best known for his role on Chicago P.D., his talent as an actor extends far beyond the police procedural genre.
Jason Beghe’s hidden talent as a two-time Tony-nominated stage actor adds a rich layer to his portrayal of Hank Voight on Chicago P.D.. While many fans may recognize him as the tough and often morally conflicted detective, few realize the depth of his theatrical background and the influence it has had on his career. His ability to bring complexity and vulnerability to Voight is a testament to his incredible range as an actor, rooted in his formative years in theater.
For those who may have overlooked Beghe’s theater credentials, it’s worth recognizing that his work on Chicago P.D. has been shaped by a wealth of experience on the stage. This hidden gem of a career adds an extra layer of appreciation for his portrayal of one of the show’s most memorable characters. As Chicago P.D. continues to captivate audiences, it’s clear that Jason Beghe’s Tony-nominated past is a major factor in bringing Hank Voight to life in the most compelling way possible.
