Jesse Lee Soffer Returns to Chicago P.D. — This Time as Director
Fans of Chicago P.D. are in for a treat as Jesse Lee Soffer makes his long-awaited return to the beloved NBC crime drama — though not in the way viewers might expect. The actor, best known for portraying Detective Jay Halstead, is returning behind the camera, directing a brand-new episode that airs tonight, October 8.
Soffer’s comeback marks a creative homecoming rather than an on-screen one. Since his departure from Chicago P.D. in 2022, his absence has been deeply felt among fans who admired his strong moral compass and chemistry with the rest of the Intelligence Unit. However, instead of stepping back into Halstead’s shoes, Soffer is once again taking on the challenge of directing, showcasing another side of his storytelling talent.
This isn’t his first time calling the shots. He previously directed two episodes of the show and received praise from both cast and crew for his thoughtful and actor-centered approach. His experience playing Halstead for nearly a decade has given him an insider’s understanding of the show’s tone, pacing, and emotional intensity — qualities that make his work behind the camera especially impactful.
In interviews, Soffer has expressed how directing allows him to see Chicago P.D. from a whole new perspective. It’s an opportunity to shape the world he once inhabited, helping other actors find their emotional truth while ensuring that each scene serves the story. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Soffer is said to bring the same dedication to directing that made him such a compelling performer.
While fans continue to hope for Halstead’s eventual on-screen return, Soffer’s directorial involvement is a welcome reminder of his lasting connection to the series. His return also reflects the strong family dynamic that has always defined the One Chicago franchise — a world where former cast members often come back in new and meaningful ways.
As Chicago P.D. moves forward with fresh storylines and evolving characters, Soffer’s influence remains woven into its fabric. His latest directorial effort promises not only gripping storytelling but also the emotional authenticity that has kept audiences invested for over a decade.
Whether behind the badge or behind the camera, Jesse Lee Soffer’s return is proof that some bonds — like the one between an actor and the show that shaped him — never truly fade. Tonight, Chicago P.D. fans can look forward to seeing the series through his lens once again, as Soffer helps bring another powerful chapter of the Chicago story to life.
Jamal Roberts Leaves Jennifer Hudson Speechless on Her Talk Show Debut! (VIDEO)
Jamal Roberts, the 2025 winner of “American Idol,” received the highest praise a singer can get from EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson while appearing on the latest episode of her talk show, airing on October 9, 2025.
After Roberts serenaded Hudson with a jaw-dropping performance of his song “Nothing Compares,” she threw her shoe across the studio — her signature move when a singer floors her with their vocals.
Jennifer Hudson Says She ‘Watched Every Beatdown’ Between Jamal Roberts & Other Contestants on ‘American Idol’
When Hudson introduced Roberts, she said she was “so excited” to hear his “big, beautiful, soulful” voice. As he sang his new single, he slowly walked over to the stool where Hudson was sitting and rose to her feet, clearly enamored. After his final run, she shouted, “Jamal!” and embraced him, her jaw dropped in awe.
Roberts then joined her onstage to chat and Hudson’s first act of business was to throw one of her pumps across the studio, telling her audience, “I think y’all know what this shoe is for. If you don’t know, this is the ultimate compliment. After you sang that song like that, I’ve got to throw the shoe.”
She was equally impressed as Roberts described the meaning behind the song, sharing, “As my journey progressed throughout the years, I’ve had some people come into my life that’s really meant a lot. They call them ‘aunties’ on social media, ‘cousins’ — all the things. I just wanted to stop and say that I really appreciate them because if they had not come in, for those people coming into my life and support me like they did, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”
Hudson is among Roberts’ legion of fans who supported his journey on “American Idol.” In May, after he was crowned the winner of season 23, Hudson posted on X, “He did it!!!!! Congratulations Jamal Roberts!!! SO well deserved! You are a star!” As they talked on her show, she said she “watched every beatdown to the last second.”
Although Roberts admitted he was “overwhelmed” during Hollywood Week and thought he’d be sent home, Hudson adorably boasted, “Well, I called you as the winner. I was right!”
Jamal Roberts Admitted He Was Nervous Ahead of ‘The Jennifer Hudson Show’
Although Hudson, who was a finalist on season three of “American Idol,” had met Roberts once before at the BET Awards, he admitted in a social media post ahead of his talk show appearance that he was still nervous — mainly about moving his way through her legendary “Spirit Tunnel” of staff members, cheering and singing for him as he headed to the stage.
In a video taken backstage, he said, “I’m kind of a little skippy here, about to get ready to go down the tunnel. I don’t know what I’m about to do going down this tunnel, okay?”
The video showed clips of Lil Wayne, MGK and Simon Cowell making their way down the tunnel before recent appearances as Roberts said, “First off, y’all know you’ve heard me say I am not a dancer. Okay? I do not dance. So hopefully, we make it through the tunnel so we can get to the stage!”
“I’m excited,” he added. “I’m glad to be a part (of the show). I’m glad for this opportunity, and I’m gonna try to enjoy the show — after I get past the tunnel!”
“The Jennifer Hudson Show” airs nationally; check local listings for time and station
