After a decade of gripping drama, moral gray areas, and fierce loyalty to justice, Chicago P.D. is saying goodbye to one of its original stars. The departure marks the end of an era not just for the character, but for the series itself. Fans have followed this character’s journey from rookie to seasoned veteran, and now, after ten unforgettable seasons, it’s time to say goodbye.
The actor in question is Jesse Lee Soffer, who played Detective Jay Halstead, one of the most beloved and morally upright characters on the show. Since the pilot aired in 2014, Halstead has been a cornerstone of the Intelligence Unit, known for his sharp instincts, unwavering sense of justice, and complicated but compelling relationships with his fellow officers. When news of his departure broke, fans were stunned. After all, Halstead wasn’t just another character—he was the voice of reason in a world often dominated by blurred lines and questionable choices. His evolving dynamic with Sergeant Hank Voight (Jason Beghe), in particular, gave the show its emotional and ethical depth.
Jay Halstead wasn’t just a detective—he was the soul of the Intelligence Unit. A former Army Ranger with a deep moral compass, Halstead was often the conscience of the team, especially in moments when Voight’s methods crossed the line. His loyalty to his brother Will (a regular on Chicago Med) and his romantic relationships, particularly with Hailey Upton (Tracy Spiridakos), made him a multi-dimensional character that audiences truly cared about. Over ten seasons, fans watched Halstead evolve from a fiery young detective into a mature, reflective leader. His storyline tackled PTSD, police ethics, and the emotional cost of justice. That development made his farewell even more poignant—viewers weren’t just losing a character; they were losing a friend they had grown up with over the years.
The writers gave Halstead an exit worthy of his character. In Season 10, he leaves Chicago to take on a high-risk assignment overseas, a decision that reflects both his military background and his internal struggle with the morally murky world of policing. His goodbye to Upton was particularly heartbreaking, leaving fans with tears and unanswered questions. The show didn’t kill him off—a decision that left the door open for a potential return. And while that possibility remains uncertain, it’s comforting to fans that Halstead is still “out there,” doing good in the world.
Halstead’s absence has left a noticeable gap in the Intelligence Unit. Without his steady presence, the team dynamics have shifted, particularly for Upton, who now wrestles with her grief and growing doubts about Voight’s leadership. His departure has also forced other characters to step up, leading to new power struggles and unexpected alliances. For fans, the loss has been deeply felt. Social media lit up with tributes, fan art, and messages of appreciation for Jesse Lee Soffer and what he brought to the series. Many viewers credited Halstead with keeping them engaged in the show’s heavier storylines, providing a moral anchor when things got dark.
Though he left Chicago P.D., Soffer hasn’t disappeared from our screens. He directed an episode of the show shortly after exiting, showcasing his skills behind the camera. And in 2025, he made headlines again by landing a major new role in the CBS drama FBI: International, playing Supervisory Special Agent Wes Mitchell. This move signals an exciting new phase in Soffer’s career—one that builds on his years of experience in procedural television while giving him the chance to explore new characters and creative perspectives. Fans who loved him as Halstead can look forward to seeing him in a brand-new light.
Few characters in the One Chicago universe have left as lasting an impression as Jay Halstead. His integrity, vulnerability, and quiet strength helped anchor Chicago P.D. during some of its most turbulent moments. He wasn’t flashy, and he didn’t always have the easy answer—but he always tried to do the right thing. As fans adjust to a Chicago P.D. without Halstead, they’ll no doubt carry his legacy forward. His influence on characters like Upton, Atwater, and even Voight continues to shape storylines, reminding viewers that some bonds don’t break, even when a character is no longer on screen.
Jesse Lee Soffer’s departure from Chicago P.D. after ten seasons is more than just a casting change—it’s a milestone in the show’s history. It marks the end of a defining era, one in which Halstead helped set the moral tone of the series and gave audiences a character they could root for in every episode. As he embarks on new adventures—both professionally and personally—Soffer leaves behind a legacy of excellence, passion, and authenticity. And if there’s one thing we know about One Chicago, it’s that goodbyes are never forever. Fans will be waiting, hoping, and believing that one day, Halstead might walk back through the doors of the 21st District—even if just for one last case.
