Hailey Upton’s departure from “Chicago PD” marks the end of an opportunity to rectify one of the show’s most significant character mishandlings. The Intelligence Unit, renowned for its efficiency and dedication to solving cases, owes much of its success to its small but capable team led by Hank Voight. Each team member contributes uniquely, allowing the unit to function effectively even when understaffed, a challenge they’ve faced for several years. However, the loss of a pivotal character like Tracy Spiridakos’ Hailey Upton is particularly impactful.
Upton’s exit has several implications, including a smaller Intelligence Unit and Voight losing his trusted right-hand person. “One Chicago” had been subtly hinting at her departure for a while. Although Upton only discussed it with Voight in the season 11 finale, she had been longing for a fresh start since realizing her marriage was irreparable. Her absence is significant, but it also eliminates the show’s chance to address the mishandling of one of its best characters — Jay Halstead.
How Chicago PD Mishandled Jay Halstead Before His Exit
Jay Halstead’s departure was rushed and confusing. As an original cast member, Jesse Lee Soffer played a crucial role in the early years of “One Chicago.” Known for his principles, Halstead often clashed with Voight due to the latter’s tendency to blur legal boundaries. Halstead served as the team’s moral compass, displaying loyalty and commitment in both his personal and professional life. However, his character underwent significant, uncharacteristic changes before his departure, making his exit in season 10 particularly disappointing.
Chicago PD Fails to Redeem Jay Halstead Before Upton’s Exit
Halstead’s decision to leave Chicago abruptly, and his subsequent actions, were his most egregious. Before leaving, he promised Upton he would return in eight months, but he never did, effectively ghosting her. This prolonged Upton’s emotional turmoil until they eventually divorced. Fans held out hope that Halstead would realize his mistake and return to make amends, but that never happened.
With Upton no longer part of “Chicago PD,” the show has lost its chance to properly address Halstead’s character arc. He never got the opportunity to apologize to Upton, leaving a significant part of his story unresolved. For long-time viewers, watching Halstead’s transformation into an inconsiderate character was difficult. Seeking out Upton would not have erased the hurt he caused, but it would have shown that he recognized his mistakes and felt remorse. Unfortunately, with Upton gone, this redemption arc is now impossible in the upcoming season 12.
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