Chicago P.D. Star Patrick John Flueger Takes Leave of Absence

CHICAGO, IL — Patrick John Flueger, known for his role as Adam Ruzek on NBC‘s popular police drama Chicago P.D., is taking a leave of absence this season due to personal reasons. Sources confirm he is expected to return later in the season.

The decision for Flueger to step away was unexpected, prompting the show’s writers to rework scripts to accommodate his absence. Reports suggest that Flueger has been facing personal challenges, including one incident of alcohol use on set.

Chicago P.D. is part of the expansive One Chicago franchise, which also includes shows like Chicago Fire and Chicago Med. The franchise has a reputation for being accommodating to its actors during personal crises, with previous cast members like Taylor Kinney also taking leaves of absence.

Flueger, who joined Chicago P.D. in 2014, has played Adam Ruzek as a central figure in the Intelligence Unit, led by Sergeant Hank Voight (Jason Beghe). His character recently entered into marriage with Detective Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati) during the Season 12 finale, a move that delighted fans of the show.

In the current Season 13, Ruzek and Burgess are navigating their life as a married couple while also parenting their adopted daughter, Makayla. The couple’s dynamic has been a focal point of the series since its inception.

As Chicago P.D. continues, the team must deal with various challenges, including the fallout from actions taken by Deputy Chief Charlie Reid (Shawn Hatosy). Fans await Flueger’s return and hope for positive developments in his personal life.