Amid the SAG-AFTRA actors’ strike that brought Hollywood to a standstill, Chicago P.D. fans were treated to a heartwarming moment that felt like a scene straight out of the show. Jesse Lee Soffer, who played Detective Jay Halstead, and Tracy Spiridakos, who plays Detective Hailey Upton, reunited on the picket lines, sending fans of their beloved “Upstead” pairing into a frenzy.
The two were spotted standing side by side alongside One Chicago executive producer Derek Haas, a sight that quickly went viral after Soffer posted the photo on Instagram with the caption: “Team, assemble!!” For longtime viewers of Chicago P.D., this reunion carried deep meaning. On screen, Halstead and Upton’s marriage was left in limbo after Soffer’s departure in Season 10, when his character left Chicago to serve overseas. The unexpected farewell left Upton devastated and fans heartbroken, making this off-screen reunion a rare gift.
What made the moment even more powerful was its timing. The actors’ strike, which began in July 2023, brought together performers across the industry to demand fair treatment, better pay, and protections against AI. By walking the picket lines together, Soffer and Spiridakos not only showed solidarity with their fellow actors but also reminded viewers of the unbreakable bond between the stars of Chicago P.D..
Fans were quick to react with excitement, flooding social media with comments about how much they missed seeing Upstead together. Many also wondered whether this real-life reunion could open the door for Halstead’s possible return to the series. While Soffer has described his decision to leave the show as one of the toughest choices of his career, he has also left fans hopeful by admitting: “Never say never. Halstead’s always going to be in my blood.”
Beyond nostalgia, the reunion highlighted the strength of the One Chicago family. Seeing Spiridakos, Soffer, and Haas together off screen reinforced that the bonds built during the show extend far beyond the set. It was a reminder that even during uncertain times in the industry, friendships and loyalty remain strong.
For now, fans can only hope that this brief but emotional reunion might one day translate into an on-screen comeback. Until then, the picket line photo serves as both a symbol of solidarity and a sweet moment of hope, proving that sometimes the most memorable Chicago P.D. moments happen when the cameras aren’t rolling.
