The chemistry between Jesse Lee Soffer and Sophia Bush, who played Detective Jay Halstead and Detective Erin Lindsay on ‘Chicago P.D.’, captivated fans throughout the show’s early seasons.
Soffer and Bush first sparked romance speculation in 2014, shortly after the debut of ‘Chicago P.D.’ Their on-screen partnership was marked by flirtation and emotional tension, mirroring the dynamics of a budding relationship. Fans quickly took notice, and reports surfaced that the two actors were dating in secret. The relationship became official in May 2014, with sources claiming they had been together for several months, keeping their romance private from the public eye.
However, the relationship would ultimately prove to be short-lived. By June 2015, it was reported that Bush and Soffer had split, with sources indicating that they “grew apart” during the filming of Season 4 of the series. The pressures of their demanding schedules and the complexities of their characters’ arcs may have contributed to the end of their romance, as both actors were heavily invested in their roles and the evolving storylines of ‘Chicago P.D.’
Despite the breakup, both actors continued to express mutual respect and sadness regarding the separation. In interviews, Soffer reflected on the impact Bush had on the show and conveyed that it was difficult to see her leave when she departed from the cast in 2017. Their shared history and experiences on the set fostered a lasting camaraderie, albeit without the romantic connection.
As time went on, both actors moved forward in their personal lives. Bush later married entrepreneur Grant Hughes in 2022, while Soffer has remained relatively private about his dating life following his breakup with Bush and a brief relationship with another co-star, Torrey DeVitto, in 2019.
In summary, while Jesse Lee Soffer and Sophia Bush did share a genuine romantic relationship during their time on ‘Chicago P.D.’, it was relatively brief and ended amicably. Their story highlights the challenges of balancing personal feelings with professional responsibilities, especially within the unique context of a successful television series. Fans continue to cherish their on-screen chemistry, while the actors themselves have proven that strong friendships can endure even after romance fades.
