BREAKING: “Chicago P.D.” Star Jason Beghe Announces Surprise Departure from the Hit Series After 11 Seasons……
In a stunning announcement that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world and the loyal fanbase of NBC’s hit crime drama Chicago P.D., actor Jason Beghe revealed today that he is officially stepping down from his longtime role as Sergeant Hank Voight, a character he has portrayed since the series premiered in 2014.
The 64-year-old actor confirmed his departure in an emotional statement released through his publicist early Thursday morning. “After more than a decade of living in Voight’s skin, I’ve made the incredibly difficult decision to step away from Chicago P.D.,” Beghe wrote. “It’s been one of the great honors of my life to bring this complex, flawed, but deeply loyal character to life. The cast, crew, and fans have become like family, and I will forever be grateful.”
NBC and Wolf Entertainment also issued a joint statement, expressing their gratitude for Beghe’s contributions. “Jason Beghe’s portrayal of Hank Voight helped define Chicago P.D. and served as the backbone of the One Chicago franchise. His work ethic, passion, and raw authenticity will be deeply missed both on and off screen,” said executive producer Dick Wolf.
Beghe’s departure will officially take place at the end of Season 12, which is currently in production and scheduled to premiere this fall. Insiders close to the show suggest his character will be given a powerful and fitting sendoff, though producers have remained tight-lipped about whether Voight will retire, die, or disappear under more mysterious circumstances.
Fans immediately took to social media to express a mix of heartbreak and gratitude. The hashtag #ThankYouVoight began trending on X (formerly Twitter) within minutes of the announcement. “He IS the show. It won’t be the same without him,” one user posted. Another wrote, “Jason Beghe brought so much grit and soul to Voight. This is the end of an era.”
Beghe, who has appeared in over 200 episodes of the series and made crossover appearances in Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and Law & Order: SVU, has become synonymous with the tough, raspy-voiced leader of the Intelligence Unit. His layered performance—often walking the line between justice and moral ambiguity—earned him critical acclaim and a fiercely loyal following.
Though Beghe has not confirmed his next move, sources say he is in talks to develop a new limited series in which he would both star and executive produce. He is also expected to continue his advocacy work related to mental health and PTSD, causes he has openly championed over the past several years.
With the curtain closing on Voight’s chapter, fans are left wondering how Chicago P.D. will move forward without its iconic lead. One thing is certain: Jason Beghe’s legacy on the show—and in the hearts of viewers—won’t soon be forgotten.