After more than a decade of leading one of television’s most gritty and emotionally charged crime dramas, Jason Beghe has officially confirmed his departure from Chicago P.D. ahead of its upcoming 13th season. The news has left fans stunned and sentimental, as Beghe’s portrayal of Hank Voight—an unrelenting, complex police sergeant with a fiercely loyal heart—has become a defining cornerstone of the One Chicago universe.
Jason Beghe’s exit marks the end of an era for Chicago P.D., a show that has captivated audiences since its debut in 2014. As Sergeant Hank Voight, Beghe brought intensity, nuance, and humanity to a character often at odds with both criminals and his own moral compass. Whether he was bending the rules to protect his team or facing demons from his past, Voight was never just a typical cop—he was a force of nature, and Beghe’s gravelly voice and piercing stare became instantly iconic. “Playing Hank Voight has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” Beghe said in a heartfelt statement. “I’ve given this role everything I had, and I’m proud of the stories we’ve told. But it’s time for me to explore new creative paths and make space for fresh voices on the show.”
Beghe joined Chicago Fire for a few early episodes before Chicago P.D. launched as its own standalone show. Since then, he has appeared in every season and almost every episode, becoming the emotional and narrative anchor of the series. From dealing with his son’s tragic death to navigating betrayals, internal affairs investigations, and shifting loyalties within his squad, Voight’s journey has been as dynamic as it has been heartbreaking. Executive producer Gwen Sigan praised Beghe’s contribution, saying, “Jason shaped the tone and direction of this show from day one. His commitment, his passion, and his relentless pursuit of truth within the character will leave an indelible mark on all of us.”
While details about how Voight will be written out of the show remain under wraps, sources close to the production hint that his farewell arc will be both “powerful” and “deeply emotional.” There is speculation that Voight’s exit could be tied to a major internal crisis within the Intelligence Unit, a twist that would allow the show to evolve while honoring the character’s complex legacy.
NBC has yet to confirm who, if anyone, will take over Voight’s leadership role. With other major cast changes already shaking the franchise—such as Tracy Spiridakos’s (Hailey Upton) departure and ongoing rumors about Patrick John Flueger’s future—the 13th season is shaping up to be a transformative chapter for the series. As expected, fans took to social media in droves following the announcement. The hashtag #ThankYouJason trended on X (formerly Twitter), with many sharing their favorite Voight moments, emotional tributes, and even fan art. “He made Voight feel real—flawed, raw, and incredibly human,” one fan wrote. “Chicago P.D. won’t be the same without him.”
Another added, “Jason Beghe didn’t just act—he embodied Voight. Watching him for over a decade has been a masterclass in character work.” Though saying goodbye to such a central figure is never easy, there’s no doubt that Jason Beghe leaves behind a rich legacy. His work helped launch a franchise, anchor a primetime staple, and tell stories that resonated deeply with audiences across the globe.
As Season 13 approaches, fans will no doubt tune in with heavy hearts, eager to see how Voight’s final chapter unfolds. And while Beghe may be leaving Chicago P.D., the impact of his work—and the character he so powerfully brought to life—will endure for years to come.
