The potential intersection between “Chicago P.D.” and “FBI: International” presents intriguing possibilities, particularly with actor Jesse Lee Soffer’s involvement. Soffer, who portrayed Jay Halstead on “Chicago P.D.”, has transitioned to “FBI: International” as a new character, Wesley “Wes” Mitchell. This move stirs conversations about crossover opportunities, especially given Soffer’s openness to revisiting his role as Halstead, noted by the actor in a Screen Rant interview with Gwen Sigan, the showrunner of “Chicago P.D.”
Soffer’s New Role and Cross-Show Dynamics
In “FBI: International,” Soffer fills the shoes of Wes Mitchell, introduced in the show’s fourth season. Mitchell brings a laid-back yet decisive energy, contrasting sharply with Halstead’s intensity on “Chicago P.D.” This character swap is not unprecedented in the One Chicago franchise under Dick Wolf’s production umbrella, which frequently recycles its acting talent across its shows. Soffer stepping into Mitchell’s shoes also resonates with the franchise’s tradition of creative crossovers and character transitions across series lines.
Wes Mitchell’s induction into “FBI: International” follows the exit of Luke Kleintank’s character, Supervisory Special Agent Scott Forrester. The change aligns with Wolf Entertainment’s trend of shifting actors to rejuvenate narratives. Mitchell’s distinctive demeanor and situational adaptability reposition Soffer within a new narrative framework, pushing “FBI: International” into refreshed thematic areas.
Cross-Show Connections and Fan Speculation
“Chicago P.D.” viewers have been vocal since Halstead’s controversial departure in late 2022, where he abandoned his storyline spouse, Hailey Upton—played by Tracy Spiridakos—sparking wide dissatisfaction among the audience. This dissatisfaction was compounded after Upton’s exit from the show. Sigan’s acknowledgement that Halstead could resurface for a fleeting return in “Chicago P.D.” suggests potential closure to his incomplete arc.
Despite the narrative bridges between “FBI” and “Chicago P.D.,” notably absent is any direct storyline connection between “FBI: International” and “Chicago P.D.” The earlier crossover was with the main “FBI” series, highlighting a requisite narrative finesse to incorporate Mitchell into Halstead’s old world. Yet, the potential for Halstead’s cameo, a ‘one-off’ as Sigan describes, may satiate avid viewers craving continuity and closure.
Closing Credits
Future developments are highly anticipated, with fans speculating on a potential return of Halstead to the Chicago narrative fold. However, for now, Soffer’s presence is entrenched in his role as Wes Mitchell on “FBI: International.” Whether this character transition will lead to a full-fledged crossover remains to be seen. Until then, audiences will have to content themselves with the possibilities and look out for any official announcements concerning a reunion with Chicago’s law enforcement ensemble. The evolution of these characters and their stories points to the expansive and interconnected universe that Dick Wolf’s franchise has cultivated over the years.
