In a moment that sent “Chicago P.D.” fans into a frenzy, former costars Jesse Lee Soffer and Tracy Spiridakos recently sparked major romance rumors after posting a cozy selfie from a trip to Italy. The candid moment, shared on social media, showed the pair snuggled up, smiling ear to ear, as they soaked in the Italian sunshine—prompting speculation about whether the friendship between these two beloved stars has blossomed into something more.

Jesse Lee Soffer, who played Detective Jay Halstead, and Tracy Spiridakos, who portrays Detective Hailey Upton, built an on-screen relationship that felt genuine and layered. As “Upstead,” their chemistry lit up screens, creating one of the most emotionally resonant pairings in the One Chicago universe. Though Soffer exited the show during Season 10, leaving a gaping hole in the Intelligence Unit—and in fans’ hearts—the bond between the actors seems very much alive.

This new photo reignited fan excitement about the possibility that their connection has carried over into real life. Posing together in what appears to be a quiet café or piazza, their relaxed posture and radiant smiles suggest a level of intimacy that goes beyond professional camaraderie. While neither actor has confirmed nor denied anything romantic, the internet did what it does best—read between every possible line, pixel, and comment.

For years, fans have hoped the actors behind “Upstead” would be just as connected off-screen. Their natural chemistry during press interviews and behind-the-scenes videos always hinted at a deep respect and friendship. The Italy selfie seems to validate that this closeness hasn’t faded with time—or even with Soffer’s departure from the show.

Adding fuel to the fire, Tracy recently wrapped up her time on “Chicago P.D.” as well. Her final episodes in Season 12 were filled with emotional weight and tributes to the character’s evolution. With both actors no longer on set, their time together in Italy doesn’t appear to be work-related. That alone suggests intentionality—two people choosing to spend quality time together, away from the spotlight and the script.

Naturally, the comment sections were ablaze. “Are we finally getting real-life Upstead?!” wrote one user. Others expressed pure joy just seeing them together again, even if it was only in a casual setting. Some fans were simply thrilled that the duo remained close friends after sharing so many pivotal years on-screen.

It’s not the first time off-screen pairings have excited fandoms. Shows with strong romantic storylines often foster real-life friendships (and occasionally relationships) between actors. But in Jesse and Tracy’s case, their private lives have mostly remained out of the headlines—making this public moment all the more striking.

Their Italy photo isn’t the only thing fans are clinging to. Observant followers have also noticed that the two have continued to interact on social media, exchanging supportive messages and liking each other’s posts long after Soffer’s exit. While this can be brushed off as friendly, it certainly reinforces the narrative of a continuing, and perhaps deepening, connection.

Still, it’s worth noting that neither Jesse nor Tracy is known for sharing much about their personal relationships. Both have kept their love lives relatively low-key, choosing to focus on their careers and creative projects. So whether this selfie marks the beginning of something new—or simply celebrates a long-lasting friendship—it remains clear that they care deeply for each other.

As “Chicago P.D.” prepares for a new chapter in Season 13 without two of its most iconic detectives, fans are left with this heartwarming reminder that some bonds—whether forged on set or off—are built to last. Whether it’s love, friendship, or a bit of both, the image of Jesse and Tracy side by side in Italy has given viewers something to smile about.

And if this truly is the start of a real-life Upstead story, fans will be the first to raise their glasses in celebration. But until then, they’ll continue to do what they’ve always done: support the stars who gave them a love story worth rooting for, both on and off the screen.