Hank Voight has always been the heart of Chicago PD. While he's not always the central focus, it's hard to imagine the show without him. Voight has always walked the line between right and wrong, but season 12 marks a significant turning point for the character.
In the episode titled "Marie," Voight faces a critical moment when Adam Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger) goes too far during an interrogation, nearly crossing the line into violence. Historically, Voight has used similar tactics, but in this episode, he steps in to stop Ruzek, showing just how much he has evolved.
Voight is striving to set a good example for IU
Voight, portrayed by Jason Beghe, is becoming more self-aware, a transformation that's been evident in recent seasons. In an interview with TV Insider, Beghe explained that Voight has realized that using violence to get results is no longer effective, and he’s striving to be a better example for the team in Intelligence Unit (IU). "He used to slap people and do things that were way outside the lines," Beghe shared, but now, Voight is learning to adapt to new methods of policing.
His growth is particularly highlighted in his relationship with Ruzek, who still struggles with the same aggressive tactics Voight once relied on. "Voight understands that you can’t do that anymore, so he had to find other ways to do his job well," Beghe continued. While Voight isn't worried about Ruzek's future, he feels responsible for setting a positive example.
The character is more reflective in season 12
Voight's reflection and growth in season 12 show just how much he’s changed, both personally and professionally. For the first time, he’s actively trying to avoid leading Ruzek—and others—down the same path of using force to get results.
As Voight continues to evolve, fans are watching a character who is testing himself in ways he never has before. The question remains: will Voight’s transformation be enough to inspire the IU team, or will his past continue to haunt him?
