If you’re a longtime Chicago P.D. fan, then you probably noticed something a bit off this season—two familiar faces are suddenly nowhere to be seen. The silence surrounding their absence has sparked an internet frenzy. Are they gone for good? Are more exits coming? And most importantly—what does this mean for the One Chicago universe?
Let’s break it all down—from character arcs and behind-the-scenes decisions to the potential ripple effects across the franchise.
Who Are the Fan Favorites Missing from Chicago P.D.?
Where Is Officer Kim Burgess?
Marina Squerciati, who plays Officer Kim Burgess, has been a cornerstone of the show’s emotional core. Her absence in key episodes raised a lot of eyebrows.
What Happened to Detective Jay Halstead?
Halstead, played by Jesse Lee Soffer, hasn’t been seen in recent episodes either—despite being central to past storylines. Fans are left wondering: Did something happen behind the scenes?
Clues Pointing to Their Sudden Absence
Burgess’s Disappearance Isn’t Just a Break
Unlike typical breaks for maternity leave or vacation, Kim’s storyline was abruptly dropped, with little explanation in-show. That kind of vanishing act usually means something’s happening off-camera.
Halstead’s Exit Was Foreshadowed
Let’s be honest—Halstead’s arc has been hinting at a departure. From emotional burnout to questioning Voight’s methods, it was only a matter of time before something gave.
Are These Temporary Absences or Permanent Exits?
No Official Exit Statements Yet
Neither NBC nor the actors have released clear exit statements. That’s usually a sign they’re keeping the door open for a possible return.
Chicago P.D. Writers Love a Surprise Comeback
Let’s not forget—Chicago P.D. thrives on drama. Characters disappear, only to show up a season later with a new look, a new job, or a brand-new secret.
What the Writers Are (and Aren’t) Saying
Behind-the-Scenes Drama or Story Strategy?
There are whispers of creative differences, but others believe the absences are strategic. With so many plotlines converging, some characters might be temporarily sidelined for focus.
Showrunner Teases “Major Shake-Ups”
In a recent interview, showrunner Gwen Sigan hinted at “big changes coming for Intelligence.” Could this be the calm before a storm—or the beginning of a total cast overhaul?
What Fans Are Saying Online
Twitter Reactions Range from Heartbroken to Furious
The fandom is not quiet. Tweets with hashtags like #WhereIsBurgess and #BringBackHalstead are gaining traction. Some fans even threaten to boycott if their faves don’t return.
Reddit Theories Are Exploding
From secret missions to spin-offs, Reddit is a goldmine of speculation. Some even think this could tie into a massive One Chicago crossover event.
How This Affects the One Chicago Universe
One Chicago Works Like a Puzzle
When one piece moves, the others have to shift. So if Burgess or Halstead are being moved to another show—or quietly written out—it has domino effects across Chicago Fire and Chicago Med.
A Bigger Franchise Realignment Might Be Brewing
With Law & Order, FBI, and Chicago franchises all under Dick Wolf’s umbrella, some fans believe a larger reorganization is happening behind the scenes. Think Avengers-style franchise mapping.
What This Means for the Future of Chicago P.D.
More Focus on Newer Characters
With veterans missing, newer characters are stepping up. Ruzek, Upton, and Torres are getting bigger storylines, which could signal a slow passing of the torch.
Is the Show Being Rebooted from Within?
Rather than end the series, NBC might be evolving it—soft reboot style. That means keeping the core theme but refreshing the cast, tone, and direction.
Will There Be a Surprise Return?
History Says Yes
Chicago P.D. has brought back “gone” characters before—sometimes dramatically, sometimes quietly. So don’t count anyone out just yet.
Could We See a Halstead/Burgess Comeback Event?
It’s not out of the question. Imagine a special episode that ties up their arcs or launches a spin-off. Fans would eat it up—and the ratings would spike.
Could This Lead to a New Spin-Off?
The Franchise Is Ripe for Expansion
One Chicago hasn’t launched a new spin-off in a while. Burgess and Halstead’s exit could be the groundwork for a new series focused on undercover ops or FBI crossovers.
Actor Schedules and Outside Projects May Be the Real Reason
Jesse Lee Soffer Is Exploring Directing
Did you know Jesse directed an episode last season? Word is, he’s interested in moving behind the camera, which could explain Halstead’s vanishing act.
Marina Squerciati Has Been Involved in Other Roles
She’s been spotted on different sets recently, and she’s hinted at other projects in interviews. So maybe it’s just a break to chase other dreams.
NBC and Wolf Entertainment’s Silence Speaks Volumes
No News Is… Strategy?
The producers aren’t panicking. That usually means one of two things: a surprise twist is coming, or the exit was carefully planned all along.
Conclusion
The sudden absence of Kim Burgess and Jay Halstead from Chicago P.D. has left a noticeable void in the show—and a flood of questions from fans. Whether it’s a temporary hiatus, a behind-the-scenes move, or the prelude to something bigger, one thing is clear: change is coming to One Chicago. And with a franchise this big and beloved, you can bet that every move is part of a much larger story.
The silence from producers and the subtle shifts in character focus suggest that the show’s future might look very different—but it’s far from over. If history has taught us anything, it’s this: In Chicago P.D., no one’s ever truly gone.
FAQs
Q1: Are Burgess and Halstead permanently written out of Chicago P.D.?
A1: As of now, there’s been no official confirmation of a permanent exit. Their absence could be strategic or temporary.
Q2: Why are the actors missing from recent episodes?
A2: Reports suggest both actors may be pursuing outside projects, but NBC hasn’t made formal announcements.
Q3: Could this lead to a new Chicago spin-off series?
A3: It’s possible. Their exit could be a setup for a new undercover or federal unit spin-off within the franchise.
Q4: Has NBC addressed the cast changes?
A4: NBC and Wolf Entertainment have remained tight-lipped, possibly to build suspense for future reveals.
Q5: Will Halstead and Burgess return this season?
A5: There’s a strong chance of at least a guest return, especially if there’s a crossover or milestone episode coming up.
