Former Chicago P.D. star Jesse Lee Soffer left fans heartbroken when he exited the series in 2022 after portraying Detective Jay Halstead for nearly a decade. While his absence has left a noticeable void in the Intelligence Unit, new reports suggest that Soffer may, in fact, return to the One Chicago universe—but not in the way fans might expect.
Instead of stepping back in front of the camera, Soffer could reprise his role behind the scenes as a director or writer, with the goal of crafting another major storyline that would see the departure of a key character.
Since leaving the show as an actor, Soffer has directed episodes of Chicago P.D., earning praise from both the cast and crew for his ability to bring a fresh perspective while still honoring the gritty tone of the long-running series. His familiarity with the characters and the show’s DNA makes him a natural fit to handle high-stakes storylines. According to insiders, the producers view Soffer as someone uniquely positioned to shape the exit of another main character—ensuring that the departure feels both authentic and emotionally powerful.
Speculation has already begun about which character could be written out if Soffer takes on this responsibility. With Season 12 diving deeper into the personal and professional struggles of the Intelligence Unit, viewers have noticed mounting tension and unresolved arcs that could pave the way for another heartbreaking goodbye. Some fans fear it could be a longtime favorite like Kim Burgess or Adam Ruzek, while others believe newer additions to the team may be on the chopping block.
Soffer’s own exit storyline, which saw Halstead leaving Chicago to work with the Army in Bolivia, remains a sensitive subject for many fans. The abrupt departure left Hailey Upton (Tracy Spiridakos) devastated and changed the dynamics of the show dramatically. Many viewers criticized the decision for feeling rushed, though others saw it as true to Halstead’s moral compass. This history makes the possibility of Soffer writing out another beloved character even more intriguing—and nerve-wracking—for the fanbase.
While neither NBC nor Wolf Entertainment has confirmed any plans, Soffer has been vocal about his continued love for the Chicago P.D. family. “This cast, this crew—they’re like home to me,” he shared in a recent interview. “Even if I’m not on screen, I’ll always be part of the One Chicago world in some way.”
If Soffer does indeed return to craft another major exit, it would mark a full-circle moment in his relationship with the series—transitioning from leading man to creative force shaping its future. Fans may have mixed feelings about losing another character, but Soffer’s involvement could ensure that the storyline is handled with the care, emotion, and depth that Chicago P.D. has become known for.
