By 2016, Jon Seda was no stranger to the applause of his peers and the admiration of audiences. Two years earlier, he had walked away from the Imagen Awards with the title of Best Supporting Actor – Television for his portrayal of Detective Antonio Dawson on Chicago P.D.. In 2016, he returned to the same stage with a new distinction — Best Actor – Television. The leap from supporting to lead recognition was more than just a change in category; it was a clear acknowledgment of Seda’s artistic growth, his deepened portrayal of Dawson, and the lasting connection he had forged with viewers.

From Team Player to Moral Compass

When Chicago P.D. first premiered in 2014, Dawson was one part of a larger ensemble — a steady, trustworthy detective with an unwavering sense of duty. By 2016, the character had evolved into something much more profound: the moral anchor of the Intelligence Unit.

Seda’s Dawson wasn’t a flashy, scene-stealing presence; instead, his strength lay in his quiet leadership and deeply rooted sense of justice. He was the voice of reason when tensions flared, the steady hand in moments of crisis, and the character who consistently reminded the team — and the audience — of the human cost behind every case.

In police dramas, it’s easy for characters to be defined solely by their professional roles, but Seda ensured Dawson was never one-dimensional. He carried the weight of his badge with a blend of humility and responsibility, and he let the audience see the man beneath the Kevlar vest — a father, a brother, and a friend.

The Significance of the Imagen Awards

The Imagen Awards are a vital platform celebrating positive portrayals of Latinos in entertainment. Winning Best Actor – Television was not only a personal triumph for Seda, a Puerto Rican-American actor, but also a moment of pride for the community he represented.

In an industry where Latino actors have historically faced limited opportunities, Seda’s win demonstrated that authentic representation can thrive in mainstream network television. Dawson’s character wasn’t defined by stereotypes or reduced to cultural shorthand — his heritage was part of him, but so was his moral courage, emotional intelligence, and unwavering integrity.

This kind of recognition also amplified an important message: audiences value and respond to layered, complex portrayals of Latino characters. Seda’s success proved that representation doesn’t just matter; it resonates.

A Performance Defined by Duality

Part of what made Seda’s 2016 win so deserved was his ability to inhabit the dual worlds Dawson straddled. In the field, he was relentless — pursuing suspects with precision, interrogating with a sharp edge, and making life-or-death decisions in split seconds. But off duty, Dawson’s vulnerability shone through in storylines involving his children, his ex-wife, and his brother, firefighter Joe Cruz from Chicago Fire.

Seda excelled at navigating this duality. In one scene, he could convey steely determination with just a glance across the interrogation table. In the next, he could break hearts with a tender moment of fatherly advice. This range made Dawson feel authentic — a man who could be both the shield and the heart of his team.

Earning the Step Up from Supporting to Lead

The jump from Best Supporting Actor to Best Actor at the Imagen Awards wasn’t accidental; it was earned through consistent, compelling work over multiple seasons. By 2016, Dawson was no longer just a key member of Voight’s team — he was a character whose moral decisions often shaped the narrative arcs of the season.

Episodes in which Dawson wrestled with the consequences of justice, questioned departmental ethics, or confronted personal loss showcased Seda’s emotional depth. These moments didn’t just move the plot forward; they deepened the audience’s investment in both the character and the series.

It was in these quieter, morally charged moments that Seda’s performance transcended the typical beats of a procedural drama and entered the realm of prestige-worthy acting.

Impact Across the One Chicago Universe

Seda’s influence wasn’t limited to Chicago P.D.. His character’s crossover appearances in Chicago Fire and later in Chicago Justice brought continuity and depth to the shared “One Chicago” universe. These appearances often gave viewers glimpses into Dawson’s personal life and reinforced the idea that he was more than just an investigator — he was a man deeply rooted in his community.

By the time Seda received the 2016 Imagen Award, Dawson had become a connective thread between multiple shows, a role that required an actor capable of carrying both emotional weight and narrative responsibility. Seda met — and exceeded — that challenge.

The Award’s Broader Meaning

While the trophy itself was a tangible symbol of achievement, the real value of Seda’s win lay in what it represented. It was proof that sustained excellence in television acting can — and should — be recognized. It was a moment that validated years of dedication to craft and character.

It also sent a message to casting directors, producers, and audiences alike: representation in leading television roles works, and it matters. For young Latino actors watching at home, Seda’s victory was more than a career milestone — it was a source of inspiration.

Fans’ Celebration of the Win

When news of Seda’s 2016 win broke, fans quickly took to social media to share their excitement. Clips of Dawson’s most powerful moments flooded timelines, accompanied by messages of congratulations and pride. Many longtime viewers saw the win as a collective victory — recognition not just for Seda, but for a character they had grown to admire and respect.

For fans, Dawson represented the best of Chicago P.D.: a combination of toughness, empathy, and moral clarity. Seda’s ability to bring all those elements to life was a key reason the series resonated so strongly in its early years.