Jesse Lee Soffer, longtime star of Chicago P.D., rarely comments on other network procedurals — but in a recent interview, he didn’t hold back. Comparing CBS’s hit series FBI to his own show, Soffer offered a candid perspective that’s sparking conversations across the industry.
According to Soffer, while FBI delivers thrilling cases and high-stakes investigations, it lacks the depth and authenticity that Chicago P.D. has cultivated over more than a decade. “I’ve watched a few episodes,” he admitted, “and honestly… it feels a little surface-level. The stakes feel manufactured. You don’t feel the weight of the job the way you do on our show.”
Why Chicago P.D. Stands Out
Soffer emphasized that Chicago P.D.’s real strength lies in character development and emotional resonance. “On our show, you live in these characters’ lives. You see their mistakes, their struggles, their consequences. You don’t just solve a case and move on. There’s real emotional impact. That’s what keeps people coming back.”
Insiders note that Soffer’s critique wasn’t meant to bash FBI but to highlight what makes Chicago P.D. compelling. “He’s fiercely proud of the work he does,” a crew member explained. “He wants people to understand the difference between shows that just tell stories and shows that live and breathe them.”
The Human Cost of Policing
Soffer also commented on pacing and tone, noting that many network procedurals favor action over nuance. “We try to show the cost of being a cop,” he said. “The long nights, the moral compromises, the human consequences. That’s not easy to capture, and a lot of shows don’t even try.”
Loyalty to the Franchise
Despite his pointed critique, Soffer acknowledged the broader landscape of television. “Every show has its audience, and that’s fine. But I know why I’ve stayed with Chicago P.D. for so long — it challenges me as an actor, and it respects the audience enough to do the same.”
While some fans applaud his honesty, others see it as overly critical of a competing show. Either way, Soffer’s remarks underline his unwavering loyalty to the world of Firehouse 51 and his commitment to authentic storytelling. For viewers and industry insiders alike, it’s clear: Jesse Lee Soffer isn’t afraid to speak his mind, and his dedication to his craft is impossible to ignore.
