Why ‘The Pitt’ Star Calls His ‘Chicago P.D.’ Experience the Most Joyful Chapter of His Career

Shawn Hatosy, best known for his gritty roles in The Pitt and Animal Kingdom, is trading in tough-guy drama for something far more uplifting—his guest role on Chicago P.D.

In a recent interview, the 49-year-old actor didn’t hold back when praising his experience on the long-running NBC crime series, calling it “the most joyful chapter of my career.” And that’s saying something, coming from an actor with a decades-long résumé in hard-hitting dramas.

“Everything about it—the cast, the crew, the energy—it just felt like coming home,” Hatosy revealed. “There was an instant chemistry, especially with Jason [Beghe]. We go way back, and being on set with him again brought a sense of warmth and purpose I haven’t felt in a long time.”

Hatosy’s character, still under wraps, is said to play a pivotal role in Season 12’s arc, potentially sparking new dynamics within the team. While his time on Chicago P.D. may be brief, fans are already asking for more—and hoping this joyful chapter becomes a recurring storyline.

For Hatosy, it’s not about the screen time. It’s about the feeling. “Joy is rare in this business,” he said. “But I found it here.”