Hank Voight, the head of the Chicago Police Department’s Intelligence Unit, has been one of the most iconic and compelling characters in Chicago P.D. from the very beginning. His reputation as a “dirty cop” often precedes him, but for many fans, his actions are far from that. Voight’s approach to policing may be unorthodox, but it’s always clear that he does what needs to be done, often walking the fine line between right and wrong. To me, Voight has never been a dirty cop—he’s simply a man who knows how to get the job done, no matter the cost, and his loyalty to his team is unparalleled.
For Voight, his team is family. Throughout the seasons, we’ve seen him go to great lengths to protect the members of the Intelligence Unit, often making sacrifices and taking risks that others wouldn’t. He leads with authority, but it’s his unwavering loyalty and respect for his team that has solidified his place as one of the most complex and admirable characters on TV. Voight’s commitment to his squad is evident in every episode, and his team’s deep respect for him is a testament to the strength of their bond.
One of the most significant aspects of Hank Voight’s character is the leadership he provides, not just through tough situations, but also by being a mentor and protector. He doesn’t just tell his team what to do—he leads by example, even if his methods aren’t always above board. In his world, the rules often get bent, but the ultimate goal is always the same: justice. Voight’s unwavering belief in protecting the innocent, even if it means getting his hands dirty, is part of what makes his character so fascinating and memorable.
And then there’s the man behind the badge, Jason Beghe, who brings Hank Voight to life in a way no one else could. Jason has portrayed a wide range of police officers and tough guys throughout his career, but his role as Hank Voight is truly his most iconic. From the moment Voight was introduced in Chicago P.D., Jason’s performance has been magnetic, bringing a depth and authenticity to the character that few could match. His ability to balance Voight’s hardened exterior with the vulnerability of someone who is fiercely protective of his team has been key to the character’s success.
It’s hard to imagine anyone else in the role of Hank Voight. Jason has made the character his own, and his portrayal has been nothing short of spectacular over the course of twelve seasons. From the emotional highs to the gut-wrenching lows, Jason has given us a nuanced, multi-layered performance that has only improved with time. Every season has offered something new, and it’s been a joy to watch Voight evolve, all thanks to Jason’s incredible talent.
As Chicago P.D. continues to evolve, it’s impossible not to think about the future of Hank Voight and what would happen if Jason Beghe were to ever leave the show. Voight is the heart and soul of the Intelligence Unit, and while the team would undoubtedly continue, it would never feel the same without him. Jason’s portrayal of Voight has become the backbone of the series, and it’s hard to imagine anyone else stepping into those shoes. Voight is not just a character on the screen—he’s a part of the Chicago P.D. legacy, and Jason has been integral to shaping that legacy over twelve seasons.
In the end, Hank Voight’s character is a testament to the complexities of morality, leadership, and loyalty, and Jason Beghe’s portrayal of him is unmatched. From his commanding presence to his protective nature, Voight will always be the character we look to for guidance, strength, and heart. Whether in moments of triumph or hardship, Voight has consistently been a character that fans can’t help but root for, and Jason’s extraordinary performance has made him one of the most unforgettable characters on television. Here’s hoping we get to see more of Jason as Voight for many years to come!
