When Jesse Lee Soffer first stepped into the role of Jay Halstead on Chicago P.D., few could have predicted just how closely his real-life story would intertwine with the show’s most iconic relationship. But behind the scenes, Jesse’s off-screen romance with co-star Sophia Bush—who played Erin Lindsay—created sparks that didn’t end when the cameras stopped rolling.
The pair’s chemistry was immediate, both on set and off. “From the first table read, it was electric,” said a production insider. “They just got each other’s rhythm.” Within a year, rumors swirled that the two were dating—and by 2014, they were spotted together at red carpet events and social gatherings.
“They tried to keep it private,” said one crew member. “But it was obvious. The smiles, the lingering glances, how protective he was of her—it was all real.”
Their real-life connection fueled one of Chicago P.D.’s most beloved romances. Fans were obsessed with “Linstead,” the coupling of Halstead and Lindsay. The emotional authenticity they brought to their scenes was undeniable—and now we know why.
But as their off-screen romance began to fade, so did the storyline. In 2016, the couple broke up quietly. By mid-Season 4, Sophia Bush made the shocking decision to leave the show altogether. “It wasn’t just a career move,” said a former staff writer. “There was tension on set. And when real relationships end, it’s hard to pretend everything’s fine.”
Sophia’s departure left Jesse reeling. Sources say he considered leaving too but ultimately chose to stay. “He threw himself into the role,” a director said. “But there was a sadness to him after that.”
In later interviews, Jesse remained respectful and tight-lipped about the breakup. But fans noticed subtle changes in his performance—more emotional weight, more guarded energy. “Jay was grieving someone,” one fan noted. “And maybe Jesse was too.”
Years later, when Jesse himself left Chicago P.D., speculation reignited: was he finally ready to walk away from the ghosts the show still held?
Since then, Soffer has directed an episode and remains close to the One Chicago cast—but his personal life is kept mostly private. Some say he’s dating outside the industry now. Others believe he still carries a torch for the woman who changed both his character and his real life.
For fans of Chicago P.D., Linstead may be over. But the love story that inspired it still lingers in the minds of viewers—and maybe, somewhere, in Jesse’s heart too.
