Hank Voight has always been a complex figure in Chicago P.D., and in Season 12, we’re seeing even more layers of his character being peeled back.
This season reveals new emotional depths, largely shaped by the mounting personal losses and trauma he’s faced. With the exit of Detective Upton, Voight’s isolation becomes more apparent, forcing him to confront both his physical wounds and emotional turmoil.
In the premiere episode, Ten Ninety-Nine, Voight is seen diving headfirst into work, his intensity and sometimes reckless approach putting those around him in danger. His decision to override protocol and take over a case typically handled by Narcotics underscores his unyielding need to control situations, even if it comes with grave consequences for the Intelligence Unit.
What makes this season compelling is Voight’s struggle to process his past while continuing to lead his team. With Martel’s death, Voight’s leadership is once again under scrutiny, both internally and externally. Deputy Chief Reed’s acknowledgment of their success contrasts sharply with Assistant State’s Attorney Nina Chapman’s insistence that Voight finally face his traumas head-on.
This new phase of Voight’s story marks a turning point for the series, promising to explore the ramifications of his unrelenting pursuit of justice and how it affects both his team and himself. As the season progresses, expect to see Voight grappling with his actions and how they ripple through the lives of those around him.