Chicago PD star says Jesse Lee Soffer presence is ‘still here’
Chicago PD is still dealing with the narrative and emotional fallout of Jay Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer) leaving. He was a core member of the team, and his absence has left a gap that has been felt by his wife Upton (Tracy Spiridakos) and the rest of the IU.
That said, the presence of the character, and the actor who plays him, is still being felt on the set of the show. LaRoyce Hawkins, who we all know and love as Kevin Atwater, recently sat down for an interview with Entertainment Tonight and he discussed the pros (and cons) of having to move on without Halstead.
LaRoyce Hawkins talks about Chicago PD’s future
For starters, Hawkins acknowledges the shadow that the Halstead storyline has cast over season 10 so far.
"“This is quite the season already and people haven’t even seen half of what we got to offer”, he noted. “Obviously we were a little nervous because Jesse is a leader on and off set and when you lose leadership in a certain capacity, it’s hard to know where things might go.”"
Despite this admittance, the actor remains confident that Chicago PD is in as good a shape as ever, and much of the confidence comes from the fact that everyone (Soffer included) is in good spirits and eager to collaborate.
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As we previously reported, Soffer will be taking up the mantle of director in an upcoming episode. Hawkins touches on the experience of working under his former co-star, and how the move from actor to filmmaker felt like a natural one.
"“I think the way everybody’s responded and stepped up to the plate and the way that it looks like Jesse’s gone, but he’s still there, in more ways than one”, Hawkins explained. “Jesse, he’s been doing this since he was six years old. Over 30 years of experience in the business and he’s learned so much and he has so much to offer… So the directing pivot for me, it feels appropriate. And he’s been great.”"
This is the first we’ve heard a Chicago PD star touch on Soffer’s directing, but given the effusive praise that has been given out, we hope that he returns to direct more episodes in the future (and maybe even make a cameo)!
Next. Jesse Lee Soffer shares goodbye message. dark
For the latest Chicago PD season 10 spoilers and news, plus more on the entire series, follow the Chicago PD category at One Chicago Center.