Nick Gehlfuss played Dr. Will Halstead for eight seasons, anchoring Chicago Med as the show’s emotional compass. So when he announced his departure, fans were confused—and heartbroken.
Why would he leave now, when the role had made him a household name?
In a rare interview, Gehlfuss revealed the quiet truth: “I didn’t want to stay until I hated it. I wanted to leave while I still loved it.”
The decision wasn’t easy. He consulted with his wife, family, and even his former castmates from Shameless. But ultimately, he felt a need to try something different—something scarier.
Since leaving the show, Gehlfuss has taken time to travel, write, and focus on passion projects. “Will Halstead gave me so much,” he said. “But there’s more I need to explore—off-screen.”
