After over a year away from the role that made him a household name, Jesse Lee Soffer is officially returning to the Dick Wolf universe—but not as Jay Halstead.
Soffer, who portrayed Detective Halstead on Chicago P.D. for nearly a decade, exited the series in Season 10 in a move that left fans stunned. Halstead's off-screen deployment to Bolivia marked an abrupt and emotional end to his time with the Intelligence Unit, with no on-screen farewell for many of his closest teammates—including his wife, Hailey Upton.
Now, Soffer is stepping back into the Wolf Entertainment fold, this time behind the camera. He is confirmed to be directing an upcoming episode in Season 13 of Chicago P.D., marking a major milestone in his creative career.
Speaking on his return, Soffer expressed deep affection for the cast and crew, calling Chicago P.D. “home.” While fans had hoped for a surprise cameo or Halstead’s full-circle return, Soffer clarified that his journey with Jay Halstead has truly ended—at least for now. “That chapter’s closed,” he said, “and I’m grateful for every page.”
Soffer’s evolution from star to storyteller highlights a unique legacy—one that bridges character and creator. His behind-the-scenes return will carry the same intensity, empathy, and emotional weight that defined Halstead’s role in the Intelligence Unit.
While it’s bittersweet to accept the end of Jay Halstead’s on-screen story, fans can take comfort in knowing Jesse Lee Soffer’s influence on Chicago P.D. is far from over.
