Is Jesse Lee Soffer leaving Chicago PD?

Jay Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer) has changed a lot in the decade since Chicago PD started. He’s gone from stern and unshakeable to flexible and understanding of other people’s imperfections. Nowhere was this more apparent than in season 9, when the character was forced to help his boss and his future wife out of a legal jam.

Halstead is a core member of the PD team, a holdover of the original lineup and a perfect foil for Hank Voight (Jason Beghe). Unfortunately, these virtues will go away at some point during season 10, as Soffer has confirmed he will be leaving the show.

Here’s what the actor had to say about his exit.

Is Jay Halstead leaving Chicago PD?

The rumors surrounding Soffer began to appear before the actor had a chance to comment. A news story was released by Variety, and rather than deny the news, Soffer commented on the story and confirmed that he was, in fact, walking after season 10.

It’s unclear whether his exit was supposed to be announced at a later date, or if the outlet simply got ahold of the information before the actor had a chance to break the news himself. Either way, the announcement has been met with an outpouring of sadness from fans.

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There are still plenty of issues that will need to be addressed in the world of the show, like how the writers plan on getting rid of a character who is so fundamental to the structure of the show without killing him off outright. Or, if they decide to go the shocking route and kill him, how will they do it in a way that’s both respectful and emotionally satisfying for longtime viewers?

Either way, it looks like Dr. Will (Nick Gehlfuss) is going to be the only Halstead brother who will still be active in the One Chicago universe.

For the latest Chicago PD season 9 spoilers and news, plus more on the entire series, follow the Chicago PD category at One Chicago Center.