In an exciting development for fans of both Chicago P.D. and CBS’s FBI: International, actor Jesse Lee Soffer is making a long-awaited return to procedural drama—but not as Detective Jay Halstead.

The beloved Chicago P.D. alum, who left the show in Season 10 after a decade of portraying the sharp, morally grounded Halstead, will be taking on a brand-new role in FBI: International. Soffer joins the series as Supervisory Special Agent Wesley “Wes” Mitchell, a fresh face with a bold personality and a mandate for justice.

🔥 A Familiar Face in a New Universe

Fans who were heartbroken by Halstead’s exit from Chicago P.D. have something new to celebrate. While Soffer won’t be reprising his role in the One Chicago universe (at least for now), his casting in FBI: International brings his signature grit and intensity to a new narrative world.

According to CBS’s official description, Wes Mitchell is a “charming and rakish” agent who brings impeccable instincts and unconventional tactics to his work. A seasoned investigator with a global perspective, Mitchell will help fill the void left by the recent departure of Luke Kleintank (Scott Forrester), who exited the show after his character vanished on an ambiguous solo mission.

“Jesse brings an emotional depth and raw charisma that will be a perfect fit for FBI: International,” said showrunner Derek Haas. “This isn’t Halstead 2.0—Wes is his own man, with his own scars and way of doing things.”

🎬 Behind the Scenes: Jesse Lee Soffer’s Return to Procedurals

Soffer’s decision to return to procedural television comes after stepping away from Chicago P.D. to pursue directing and other creative opportunities. In fact, he even returned to the NBC series behind the camera, directing an episode in Season 10.

However, the lure of a strong character arc and the opportunity to play a new kind of law enforcement officer appears to have brought him back in front of the camera—this time for a global setting.

Unlike Halstead, whose work was primarily focused on Chicago’s Intelligence Unit, Wes Mitchell operates on an international scale, bringing a more espionage-flavored edge to Soffer’s résumé. Early reports suggest that the character will challenge norms within the Fly Team, potentially clashing with team veterans while also commanding their respect.

🚨 Replacing Forrester: A Shift in Team Dynamics

The exit of Kleintank’s Forrester left a major hole in FBI: International’s leadership structure. With his departure not fully resolved onscreen, Wes Mitchell may serve as both a narrative successor and a tonal contrast. Where Forrester was often stoic and methodical, Mitchell is expected to be more instinctive, bold, and emotionally direct.

Soffer’s casting hints at a possible pivot in the show’s tone and energy—something that may reinvigorate the series as it heads into its fourth season.

🧭 What Fans Can Expect From Wes Mitchell

Soffer’s past performances have proven his ability to balance toughness with vulnerability, which could make Mitchell a multidimensional addition to the Fly Team. While full plot details remain under wraps, sources indicate that his character will be introduced with a backstory involving high-profile international operations—and a few secrets of his own.

“He’s not just stepping into a leadership role,” one insider said. “He’s bringing a new philosophy—one that may not sit well with everyone at first.”

In addition to his professional prowess, fans are speculating whether Mitchell’s character may also get a romantic subplot—something Soffer handled with nuance during his time opposite Sophia Bush (Erin Lindsay) and Tracy Spiridakos (Hailey Upton) on Chicago P.D.

🌍 Bridging Universes?

While there’s no indication of crossover between CBS’s FBI franchise and NBC’s One Chicago, Soffer’s move is a reminder of the interconnected appeal of strong procedural drama universes. For viewers who have followed him from his early days on As the World Turns through Chicago P.D., the move feels like a reunion—if not in location, then in spirit.

And for FBI: International, it’s a chance to re-energize its core cast with a fan-favorite actor who brings built-in loyalty and credibility.

Final Thoughts

Jesse Lee Soffer’s transition into FBI: International is more than just a casting update—it’s a statement. It signals growth, change, and fresh intrigue for a show poised to evolve. And while Jay Halstead may still be somewhere in Bolivia on assignment, fans can now look forward to meeting Wes Mitchell, a man with his own mission—and his own rules.