Chicago PD has captivated audiences for years, not only because of its thrilling police procedural plotlines and high-stakes action, but because of its richly developed characters, particularly the men of the Intelligence Unit. These characters bring a unique blend of strength, vulnerability, and moral ambiguity to the show, making them some of the most compelling figures on television. From the hardened veteran Hank Voight to the morally complex Jay Halstead and the emotionally charged Kevin Atwater, the men of Chicago PD are anything but one-dimensional. They are heroes, antiheroes, and everything in between.
Jason Beghe: Hank Voight – The Unyielding Leader
At the heart of Chicago PD is Hank Voight, portrayed by Jason Beghe, a character that has become one of the most iconic antiheroes in television history. Voight is a man of action, unafraid to bend the rules and sometimes cross moral lines in the pursuit of justice. His leadership of the Intelligence Unit is defined by a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done, often making him a controversial figure.
Voight’s complex moral compass is what makes him such a captivating character. While he often operates in the gray areas of law enforcement, he has an undeniable commitment to his team and to protecting the people of Chicago. Beghe’s portrayal of Voight is raw, intense, and deeply layered, making him both a figure to be feared and, at times, admired.
Off-screen, Jason Beghe is known for his professionalism and his strong rapport with his fellow cast members. His leadership on set mirrors the character he plays, and his ability to guide and mentor his co-stars, particularly the younger members of the cast, has been instrumental in the show’s success. Beghe’s connection to Voight goes beyond the script, as he brings his own strength and resolve to the character, making Voight’s dilemmas and emotional struggles feel even more real.
Jesse Lee Soffer: Jay Halstead – The Soldier Struggling with His Inner Demons
Jesse Lee Soffer’s portrayal of Jay Halstead has made the character one of the most beloved in the Chicago PD universe. Halstead is a man caught between his duty as a detective and the personal toll that his job takes on him. He’s a man of integrity, but he also grapples with the emotional weight of his actions and the choices he’s made. From his complicated relationship with Hailey Upton to his troubled past in the military, Halstead is a character defined by his internal conflict.
What makes Soffer’s portrayal of Halstead so compelling is his ability to bring nuance to a character that could easily have been a stereotypical “tough guy” cop. Halstead is more than just a dedicated officer—he is someone struggling with deep emotional wounds, and Soffer excels in showing that vulnerability without losing the toughness that defines him. His connection with the rest of the team, particularly his bond with Hank Voight, adds another layer of depth to his character, making Halstead one of the most relatable men on the show.
Off-camera, Soffer is known for his collaborative spirit and his easygoing nature, which has made him a favorite among the Chicago PD cast and crew. His chemistry with his fellow castmates, particularly Tracy Spiridakos (Hailey Upton), adds to the emotional resonance of the show, creating moments that feel both authentic and impactful.
LaRoyce Hawkins: Kevin Atwater – The Officer Fighting for Change
LaRoyce Hawkins’ portrayal of Kevin Atwater is one of the most refreshing and important aspects of Chicago PD. Atwater is a man who is deeply committed to justice but is often faced with the harsh realities of being a Black police officer in a system that doesn’t always seem to have his back. His character has evolved significantly over the course of the series, and in Season 8, Atwater grapples with questions of loyalty, justice, and how to be a force for change within the police department.
Hawkins brings a unique depth to Atwater, portraying a man who is both tough and deeply empathetic. Atwater’s moral struggles are front and center, and Hawkins’s performance captures the inner turmoil of a man who is caught between wanting to make a difference and being torn by the corruption and difficulties within the system. This internal conflict makes Atwater one of the most layered and thought-provoking characters on Chicago PD.
Off-screen, Hawkins is known for his infectious positivity and deep commitment to social change. He brings a level of authenticity to Atwater that resonates with audiences, especially in his scenes tackling issues of race, justice, and police reform. Hawkins’s dynamic with his co-stars, particularly his friendship with Flueger’s Adam Ruzek, adds a sense of camaraderie and humanity to the show.
The Legacy of the Men of Chicago PD
The men of Chicago PD are more than just cops—they are complex, deeply human figures who continue to resonate with audiences because they reflect the messy, unpredictable nature of life itself. Whether they are leading investigations, making tough decisions, or facing personal struggles, these men represent the heart and soul of Chicago PD. And it is this humanity, mixed with their resilience and determination, that keeps fans coming back for more.
