Key Highlights
- Patrick John Flueger is taking a leave of absence from ‘Chicago PD’ to deal with personal issues.
- The departure affects the Intelligence Unit and scripts are being adjusted to reflect Ruzek’s absence.
- This leaves the team, including Adam Ruzek’s wife Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati) and their daughter Makayla, to navigate challenges without a key member.
- Flueger is returning later in the season after addressing his personal matters.
The Personal Struggle
NBC’s popular police drama ‘Chicago P.D.’ faces an unexpected change with actor Patrick John Flueger taking a leave of absence from the show. The news, exclusively reported by Deadline and confirmed through sources close to the production, comes as Flueger grapples with a difficult personal period that includes instances of alcohol use on set.
“We understand that Patrick is going through a challenging time personally,” says a source familiar with his situation. “His well-being is paramount, and we are supporting him during this leave.” The actor’s temporary absence from the show highlights the industry’s commitment to prioritizing the mental health of its performers.
Impact on the Show
The departure of Adam Ruzek (played by Flueger) affects not only his character but also the Intelligence Unit, led by Sergeant Hank Voight (Jason Beghe). The current season deals with the aftermath of Deputy Chief Charlie Reid’s actions, which have shaken the team. Without Ruzek, the intelligence unit must navigate these challenges in a different manner.
According to sources, scripts are being reworked to accommodate Ruzek’s absence. “The writers and producers are working diligently to ensure that the storylines can still move forward while accounting for Ruzek’s temporary leave,” said an anonymous source involved with the production.
A History of Support
The Chicago franchise, including ‘Chicago P.D.’, has a history of accommodating actors who need personal time. Previous examples include Taylor Kinney, a star of ‘Chicago Fire’, who also took a leave of absence and returned 10 months later. This approach underscores the network’s commitment to supporting its cast members’ well-being.
Flueger’s Ruzek has been an integral part of the show for years, known for his on-and-off relationship with Detective Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati) and their daughter Makayla, whom they adopted in Season 8. His father, Disco Bob (Jack Coleman), is also a significant character, dealing with Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
Return to the Show
Despite the challenges he faces, Flueger’s return later in the season is seen as positive. “We are hopeful that Patrick will be back soon and can continue his important role on the show,” added another insider.
The temporary departure of Patrick John Flueger from ‘Chicago P.D.’ serves as a reminder of the importance of personal well-being for actors, especially in the demanding world of television production. His return is anticipated to bring renewed energy to the Intelligence Unit and its ongoing storylines.
