Axios From Chicago Med to Steppenwolf: Nick Gehlfuss Shares His Perfect Day in the City
If Axios were to ask Nick Gehlfuss, the earnest and often intense Dr. Will Halstead from NBC's Chicago Med, to describe his perfect day in the city he now calls home, one might expect a meticulous, almost clinical itinerary. But the reality, as Nick would describe it, is a beautifully orchestrated blend of grounding routine, cultural immersion, and authentic Chicago grit, far removed from the high-stakes drama of the Gaffney Chicago Medical Center. It's a day that threads the needle from the personal to the professional, from the quiet hum of a neighborhood to the electric pulse of live theater, culminating in an appreciation for the city's soul.
His perfect day begins not with an alarm, but with the subtle shift of the morning light filtering through his Lincoln Park window. There's a deliberate slowness to the start, a conscious counterpoint to the rush of a hospital emergency room. The first ritual is always coffee – a meticulously prepared pour-over, the rich aroma a silent invitation to the day. With a steaming mug in hand, and perhaps his dog by his side, he’d step out for a walk through Lincoln Park. It’s here, amidst the leafy paths and the iconic skyline peeking through the trees, that the city truly begins to breathe. The crisp morning air, the distant hum of traffic, the calls of geese on the pond – it's a symphony of urban awakening that centers him, allowing the echoes of yesterday's dramatic scenes on set to dissipate into the tranquil morning.
From the natural serenity of the park, the day would transition to an appreciation of Chicago's architectural grandeur. He wouldn't opt for the bustling tourist cruises, but perhaps a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk, admiring the sheer audacity and artistry of the buildings that pierce the sky. Lunch would be a simple, unpretentious affair – maybe a hearty sandwich from a beloved neighborhood deli, or perhaps venturing into the West Loop for an authentic taco from a no-frills taqueria. It’s about taste and place, connecting with the city through its unassuming, culinary gems rather than its Michelin-starred marvels. He cherishes these moments, where he can simply observe, letting the city's vibrant tapestry unfold around him without the spotlight.
The afternoon would inevitably lead him towards the hallowed grounds of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company. This isn't just a place of entertainment for Nick; it’s a beacon, a source of inspiration, and a reminder of the raw, visceral power of storytelling that first drew him to acting. He might not be seeing a matinee, but rather stepping inside the lobby, feeling the palpable energy of a space where legends have trod. Perhaps he'd browse their bookstore, or simply sit in the cafe, absorbing the creative atmosphere, thinking about the craft, the dedication, and the collective spirit required to bring a play to life. It’s a quiet pilgrimage, a re-connection to the fundamental artistry that underpins his own demanding role on screen. The transition from the high-definition realism of Chicago Med to the intimate, breath-and-blood reality of the stage is a profound one for him.
As dusk settles, transforming the city into a canvas of glittering lights, his perfect day would culminate in a shared meal and, ideally, a live performance. Dinner would be at a restaurant that values robust flavors and a welcoming atmosphere over ostentatious display – perhaps a cozy Italian spot in Lincoln Park or a farm-to-table gem in Logan Square. The conversation would flow easily, a chance to unwind and connect.
Then, the main event: a play, preferably at Steppenwolf, or perhaps the Goodman or Writers Theatre. Slipping into a darkened theater, feeling the collective anticipation of the audience, the hush before the curtain rises – it's a sensation he savors. Watching actors pour their souls into their roles, feeling the narrative unfold live before him, it’s a profound reset button. It reminds him of the pure magic of his chosen profession, far removed from the cameras and call sheets. It's a communal experience, a shared journey into another world, that invigorates his own artistic spirit.
Finally, a nightcap, a quiet debrief of the performance, and a slow winding down. Back in Lincoln Park, the city lights would sparkle, no longer a bustling backdrop but a comforting embrace. Nick Gehlfuss's perfect day in Chicago is not about grand gestures or exclusive experiences; it's about intentionality, about finding the quiet beauty in the everyday, the rich tapestry of culture, and the profound connection to his craft that the city so readily offers. It's a day that grounds Dr. Halstead in the real world, reminding the actor of the vibrant, authentic heart of Chicago, ready to face another intense day on set.
