- Jon Seda is a famous actor
- He starred in 'Chicago P.D.'
- Learn more about his career and why he exited the series
Jon Seda has an impressive history and is well known in Hollywood as a genuine and kind man so why would the producers behind Chicago P.D. want him out?
Jon Seda On Chicago P.D.
Puerto Rican-American actor Jon Seda first broke into Hollywood while he was an amateur boxer who landed the role of "Romano" in the 1992 hit Gladiator. He went on to star in countless hits like I Like It Like That, 12 Monkeys, Ghost Whisperer, House, Burn Notice, and Hawaii Five-0. His work was highly respected, earning him a nomination for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival for his role in The Sunchaser!
Jon is also highly recognized for his portrayal of Chris Pérez, Selena Quintanilla-Perez's husband in the cherished biopic Selena. He and the real Chris Pérez even share a close friendship.
But Jon is most well known for his portrayal of "Detective Antonio Dawson" in Dick Wolf's Chicago franchise. "Antonio" was beloved by fans because of his strong conscience and big heart. "Antonio" was the polar opposite of his partner "Voight" and usually the voice of reason that stuck to his morals. He was one of the longest-running characters but for some reason, his storyline took a tragic turn.
During season 6 it was announced that it would be Jon Seda's last season on the series. "Antonio" suffered a bad shoulder injury while taking down a criminal and became addicted to painkillers that ended up destroying his life and all that he loves. At one point with the help of his partner, he sobers up but then is seen relapsing at the end of the season. It is suggested that his partner sent him again to rehab and in season 7 it is mentioned that he quit the force and moved to Puerto Rico to be with his family while he recovered.
His character was intertwined with the entire One Chicago franchise, he began on Chicago Fire, was a lead on Chicago P.D., and was the older sister of a character on Chicago Med, and was even featured in Law & Order: SVU. But this was not enough to keep him on the show.
Jon loved his job and his character, so why did he leave? According to Looper, the producers behind the show said it was because of "creative reasons related to the character's story evolution," and that his character "had been played out." They seemed to share a good relationship and Seda was reportedly "well-liked" and Seda seemed to harbor no hard feelings. He even said it was "an honor" to have played "Detective Dawson."
Apparently, the producers even tried to get him back for a few episodes of season 7! The showrunner Rick Eid told CinemaBlend, "I think the door's always open for someone like Jon. Everybody here loves him, thinks he's a great actor. Of course." He even admitted, "There was a moment that we were hoping he was actually going to be in the show for that episode."
Past characters from the franchise like Peter Mills from Chicago Fire was written off so they could bring in new talent and keep the characters fresh. Unfortunately for Chicago P.D. but fortunately for Jon, he landed an epic starring role on NBC show La Brea!
Jon played former Navy SEAL "Dr. Benjamine Glass" in Los Angeles where a mysterious sinkhole arises and affects countless people in terrifying ways on La Brea from 2021-2024.
Also Interesting:
Test Your Knowledge!
Which of the following shows is NOT part of the 'Chicago' franchise?
5 Fun Jon Seda Facts
- When Jon was a boxer he held an impressive record of 21 wins and only 1 loss!
- He's an avid motorcycle rider.
- Jon has played a detective before! He was on NYPD Blue, Law & Order, Homicide: Life on the Street, and The Closer!
- He still participates in boxing events!
- He's teaching himself how to play the guitar.
