When a new thriller series like Countdown enters the TV arena, the creative team behind it is always searching for ways to expand its universe, deepen its storylines, and connect with audiences who already have a loyal following elsewhere. Recently, fans were treated to an intriguing hint: the creator of Countdown admitted they’d love nothing more than to have a crossover with a Chicago P.D. veteran. And in their own words—“that sounds awesome.”
The statement immediately lit up conversations online, merging two passionate fandoms and sparking speculation about what such a crossover could look like.
The Power of Crossovers
Crossovers have long been a favorite tool in the TV industry, and for good reason. They not only boost viewership but also give fans a chance to see beloved characters in new contexts. Chicago P.D. itself has thrived on crossovers within the larger One Chicago franchise, connecting with Chicago Fire and Chicago Med to create some of NBC’s most exciting television events.
But taking that concept beyond the One Chicago universe is another level entirely. Imagine a hard-hitting procedural like Countdown, with its tense investigations and morally complex characters, crossing paths with the gritty, emotionally charged world of Chicago P.D.. It’s not just fan service—it’s the kind of television event that could redefine what both shows are capable of.
Why a Chicago P.D. Veteran Makes Sense
The phrase “Chicago P.D. veteran” immediately brings to mind some of the most iconic names in the series’ history—characters who have been central to the show’s identity and who continue to resonate with fans. While the creator didn’t specify which veteran they were envisioning, the possibilities are tantalizing.
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Jay Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer): His military background and moral compass would fit seamlessly into Countdown’s high-stakes, time-sensitive narratives. A crossover could explore his experience in counterterrorism and special ops, making him an ideal bridge between the two shows.
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Hank Voight (Jason Beghe): As one of television’s most complex leaders, Voight’s gray-area methods would clash—and perhaps align—in fascinating ways with Countdown’s themes of sacrifice, survival, and justice.
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Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati): Her resilience and empathy could provide a human counterpoint to the relentless ticking clock of Countdown’s cases.
Whichever veteran the creator had in mind, it’s clear that Chicago P.D.’s DNA—gritty, character-driven drama—aligns perfectly with the pulse-pounding urgency of Countdown.
A Meeting of Two Worlds
At its core, Countdown thrives on suspense. The premise, centered around a race against time to prevent catastrophic events, leaves audiences on edge, waiting for the next twist. Chicago P.D., on the other hand, has always excelled at blending procedural action with deeply personal stakes. Bringing them together could create a narrative where ticking-clock tension meets street-level grit.
Picture this: an imminent threat in Chicago requires the FBI’s Countdown team to team up with Intelligence. Old scars resurface, alliances are tested, and characters from both shows are forced to make impossible choices. It’s not hard to see why the creator described the idea as “awesome.”
Fans Are Already Dreaming
Since the comment surfaced, fan speculation has run wild across social media. Some want to see Jesse Lee Soffer’s Jay Halstead return for a one-off crossover, giving fans closure while introducing him to a new audience. Others dream of Jason Beghe’s Voight and Countdown’s lead character clashing over tactics, a battle of philosophies that could dominate watercooler conversations for weeks.
Even casual fans of Chicago P.D. admit the possibility excites them. The idea of weaving a veteran from a well-established franchise into a rising thriller like Countdown feels like the perfect way to honor both shows.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time
The television landscape is shifting rapidly. Streaming platforms and broadcast networks alike are leaning heavily into shared universes, spin-offs, and special event crossovers. From the Marvel Cinematic Universe to Law & Order’s ongoing integrations, audiences crave interconnected storytelling.
For Countdown, still building its brand, a crossover with Chicago P.D. could give it instant credibility and a larger fanbase. For Chicago P.D., which is entering its 13th season, it’s an opportunity to refresh its storytelling by stepping outside the One Chicago umbrella.
Timing, as they say, is everything—and right now, both shows stand to benefit enormously from such a bold move.
The Road Ahead
Of course, nothing has been officially confirmed. Crossovers require complex negotiations between networks, schedules, and creative teams. Still, the creator’s enthusiasm shouldn’t be taken lightly. In Hollywood, ideas often start with a simple “that sounds awesome,” and before long, they’re headline-making events.
Whether it’s Halstead finding himself in a Countdown-driven case, Voight clashing with federal operatives, or Burgess uncovering the human side of a high-stakes crisis, the possibilities remain endless.
