Long-running American police procedural drama Chicago PD has managed to amass a significant fanbase over the years due to its engaging narrative. One of the show’s most appealing features is its well-rounded characters, who offer a compassionate glimpse into the lives of real-life police officials. A notable role in the series was played by Jesse Lee Soffer, who expertly portrayed Intelligence Unit detective Jay Halstead. Despite his excellent run on the show, Soffer’s character departed the series in 2022, much to the fans’ dismay. But why did Jesse Lee Soffer’s Jay Halstead leave Chicago PD?
Here are all the details regarding the seasoned actor’s exit from the American series.
When and why did Jesse Lee Soffer’s Jay Halstead leave Chicago PD?
Jesse Lee Soffer made his debut as Jay Halstead on Chicago PD in 2014. He left the show during its tenth season in 2022.
Halstead’s departure from the Prism Awards-nominated series occurred in the third episode of season 10 after an emotional realization. He had been working off-duty on a robbery case, which culminated in a confrontation with one of the perpetrators. In a reflexive act of self-defense, the veteran officer ended up stabbing the robber multiple times, ultimately resulting in the robber’s death.
While Hank Voight and Hailey Upton successfully cover for their teammate’s mishap, Halstead’s inner turmoil regarding the morally ambiguous nature of his job causes him to hand over his resignation. Instead, he chooses to retrace his footsteps and joins the army for the second time to fight against drug cartels in Bolivia.
While talking to NBC Insider, showrunner Gwen Sigan revealed why they let Halstead leave Chicago PD. Sigan stated that their main objective was to let the character exit the show on his own terms. “The idea of him getting back to who he was gave us that opportunity. The Army’s always been integral to who he is. I think that time with the rangers shaped him, his morals, his compass,” the series creator explained. “was fitting that he’d want to get back to that, to some sort of simplicity and an idea of right and wrong.”
As of now, there is no confirmation that Jesse Lee Soffer will reprise his role as Jay Halstead in future seasons of Chicago PD.