Hank Voight’s Tenacity in the Season 13 Premiere of Chicago P.D.
Hank Voight, portrayed by the formidable Jason Beghe, is a character synonymous with determination and resilience in the world of Chicago P.D. The Season 13 premiere titled “Consequences” is no exception, as Voight embodies a relentless drive to restore his recently dismantled Intelligence Unit. In a gripping narrative that unfolds one month after the shocking murder of corrupt CPD Chief Reid, Voight’s journey reveals the complexities and moral dilemmas he faces as he navigates the tumultuous waters of police politics in Chicago.
Background: Facing the Aftermath of Reid’s Death
The tension escalates right from the Season 13 opener, spotlighting the aftermath of Chief Reid’s demise. Voight had orchestrated this shocking act, believing it would clear the path for the reinstatement of his unit. However, he quickly realizes that the tarnished reputation of the Intelligence Unit and the complexities involved in departmental politics make the reinstatement a challenge far more difficult than he anticipated. The premiere adeptly portrays Voight’s internal struggles and the critical decisions he must make as he strives to lead his team back to action.
Voight’s Struggle: A Leader Without a Squad
In the episode, Voight grapples with the fallout of Reid’s actions. The Intelligence Unit, scattered and ineffective, is suffering from isolation and a lack of direction. With his officers grounded and unable to fulfill their duties, Voight finds himself plagued by boredom and frustration. This feeling is poignantly captured through his interactions with Desk Sgt. Trudy Platt, played by Amy Morton. Trudy’s concern for Voight prompts her to encourage him to make peace with Commander Devlin, despite Devlin’s unyielding nature.
“He’s like a dog with a bone,” Beghe aptly describes Voight’s single-minded devotion to restoring his unit. As he engages in charm and negotiation with Devlin, his desire is clear: Voight is willing to go to extraordinary lengths to secure his team’s reinstatement.
An Unexpected Alliance: Teaming Up with ATF
While relegated to patrol duties—a situation Voight despises—he encounters a gun deal that spirals into chaos, leading to a lethal shooting. Driven by instinct and duty, Voight takes matters into his own hands. Realizing the severity of the automatic weapon involved, he discreetly enlists the help of his former Intelligence Unit team members, showcasing the solidarity and loyalty within his ranks.
This unexpected twist brings Voight into contact with ATF Officer Eva Imani, played by Ari Mandi, who shares a mutual disdain for procedural red tape. Their partnership blossoms as they focus on dismantling a dangerous gun-running operation, cleverly using Voight’s skills to bend the rules for a higher cause. This dynamic enriches the narrative palette, adding layers of urgency and collaboration, as both characters strive to address the systemic issues of gun violence in their city.
The High-Stakes Case: A Game of Leverage
Following a successful arrest of the gun-runner known as Raptor, Voight returns to Devlin armed with evidence that could reverse the suspension of the Intelligence Unit. The high-stakes environment intensifies as Voight confronts Devlin, reminding him of the unit’s proven record and the need for tangible action. Devlin’s cold refusal, stating, “No boss with an ounce of self-regard would sign your unit back together,” heightens the tension.
Voight’s strategy pivots as he reveals damning information about the very firearms associated with the CPD’s tarnished reputation. His strategic maneuvering reflects not just cunning, but also a deep understanding of the stakes involved—both for his team and the greater community. The moral ambiguity of Voight’s actions serves as a focal point, inviting viewers to question the ethics of policing and power dynamics.
A Hard-Won Victory: Reinstating the Unit
Utilizing pressure and cunning, Voight ultimately forces Devlin’s hand. With the threat of public exposure looming over Devlin, Voight successfully negotiates the reinstatement of the Intelligence Unit. This moment captures both Voight’s victory and the underlying moral compromises he often engages with. Returning to the bullpen, he invites Officer Imani to join his newly reinstated unit, a decision that promises to inject fresh energy into the squad.
The premiere culminates in Voight’s resolute declaration, “Let’s get back to work,” as the audience breathes a sigh of relief alongside him. This moment seals his return to the team and emphasizes the ongoing battle against the complex challenges faced by law enforcement.
Viewing Information
For those eager to delve into the world of Hank Voight and the intricate plots of Chicago P.D., Season 13 airs on NBC every Wednesday at 10/9c, with episodes available for streaming the next day on Peacock. Join Voight and the rest of the Intelligence Unit as they navigate the challenges of policing in a city fraught with danger and moral ambiguity.