The Intelligence Unit is going to be short one familiar face this season.
Patrick John Flueger, who has starred as Officer Adam Ruzek on Chicago P.D. since the show’s debut, is taking a temporary leave of absence from the long-running NBC police drama to deal with a personal matter, Topthreeus.com confirms via Deadline. The actor is expected to return later in the current season.
According to reports, Flueger’s departure was unexpected, prompting the writers to rework upcoming scripts to explain his absence. Sources told Deadline that the time off follows a challenging personal period for the actor, which reportedly included an instance of alcohol use on set.
Flueger’s decision to step away mirrors a precedent within the Chicago franchise — known for its supportive approach when cast members need time to focus on their well-being. In 2023, Chicago Fire star Taylor Kinney took a similar break from the series before returning nearly a year later.
Since joining Chicago P.D. at its 2014 premiere, Flueger has become one of the show’s most beloved original cast members. His character, Adam Ruzek, is a dedicated member of Sergeant Hank Voight’s (Jason Beghe) Intelligence Unit and has been central to some of the show’s biggest storylines.
Fans recently watched Ruzek marry longtime love Detective Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati) in the Season 12 finale — a moment nearly a decade in the making. The couple, who share their adopted daughter Makayla, have been navigating newlywed life while balancing family responsibilities and the pressures of their demanding jobs.
In Season 13, the Intelligence Unit is recovering from the fallout of Deputy Chief Charlie Reid’s (Shawn Hatosy) downfall — a storyline that tested loyalties within the department. With Ruzek and Burgess focusing on their marriage and family, viewers will likely see that relationship take a temporary pause as the show explains Ruzek’s on-screen absence.
While Flueger’s break may surprise fans, sources say the actor’s focus is on personal healing and returning stronger. His comeback later in the season will no doubt be highly anticipated by the One Chicago fan community.
