Three years after his shocking departure from Chicago P.D., fans may finally have a real reason to believe that Jay Halstead is on his way back — and it all ties back to a surprising development over on FBI: International.
Jesse Lee Soffer, who played Halstead for nearly a decade, left the show in Season 10 when his character took a covert assignment in Bolivia. Since then, viewers have clung to hope for his return. But now, an unexpected shift at CBS has reignited that spark: FBI: International is reportedly losing one of its core leads — opening the door for a potential crossover recast or full-circle moment involving Halstead.
Why is this so huge? Because Halstead’s final storyline involved working with a federal task force — and fans believe this could be the perfect bridge to bring him back into the One Chicago universe. Even more convincing? Soffer has been spotted working behind the scenes on Chicago P.D. in a directing role, proving he’s still close to the franchise.
“Never say never,” Soffer said in a past interview. “I love that character. There’s always a chance.”
With Chicago P.D. heading into a pivotal new season and major cast shakeups already underway, the timing couldn’t be more perfect.
Could Halstead return for a high-stakes FBI crossover? A new task force? Or a redemption arc involving Intelligence?
One thing’s for sure: the door isn’t just cracked open anymore — it’s swinging wide.
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