Dr. Will Halstead is returning to Chicago.
Nick Gehfuss, who played Dr. Halstead for eight years before leaving “Chicago Med” in 2023, will return in a guest-starring role in the upcoming Season 11.
The last time viewers saw Halstead was in the Season 8 finale, as he moved to Seattle and reconnected with Dr. Natalie Manning (Torrey DeVitto) and her son, Owen.
“It was a difficult decision, but ultimately, I felt I’d taken Dr. Halstead as far as I can go with him. I think that comes down to a creative part of you, or the energy or spirit you have that you’re either built for a very long time with one person or not,” Gehlfuss told Variety at the time of his exit. “I am attracted to the profession for the variety in it, and eight years is a long time. It’s two college degrees! I’m joking now that I basically have a doctorate in television.”
While DeVitto left the show two seasons earlier, he was thrilled that their characters were able to reunite on screen. “We fell right back into our work rhythm as if we didn’t have any time off. It was a beautiful moment, and one that I hope brings some closure to the fans,” he shared. “Because this relationship has come full circle for Will and Natalie. I think Will was seeking elements of Natalie in every relationship that followed their breakup. He never really got over her.”
Season 10 introduced Allen Macdonald, a new showrunner to the “Chicago Med” world; at the top of the season, he teased cameos by returning favorites: “One thing I love about the One Chicago world is just because someone has exited the show, they’re still part of the world. And I like checking in with people.”
Gehlfuss is represented by Gersh and MJ Management.
“Chicago Med” returns to NBC on October 1.
