Fans of Chicago P.D. have reason to celebrate: Patrick John Flueger, the beloved actor behind Officer Adam Ruzek, is expected to return to the series in 2026. Flueger, who temporarily stepped away during Season 13, recently reassured fans that his departure is only short-term.
A Sudden Exit, But Not Goodbye
In October 2025, it was announced that Flueger would take a temporary leave from the show due to personal reasons, including a reported incident involving alcohol. His decision caught the production team off guard, forcing writers to quickly adjust storylines to account for Ruzek’s absence. Despite the sudden pause, both Flueger and NBC remain optimistic about his return.
What This Means for the Story
Ruzek has been a cornerstone of Chicago P.D. since the show’s premiere in 2014, serving as a loyal and skilled member of the Intelligence Unit under Sergeant Hank Voight. His character recently experienced major life milestones, including marrying Detective Kim Burgess (Marina Squerciati) and raising their adopted daughter, Makayla.
With Ruzek temporarily off-screen, showrunners faced the challenge of maintaining continuity while honoring his character’s importance. Insiders suggest his return will occur later in Season 13, likely in early 2026, offering a chance to reinvigorate storylines and deepen character arcs.
How Ruzek Might Return
While exact details remain under wraps, several possibilities could explain his absence and re-entry:
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Extended Leave: Ruzek could be written as taking personal or family time.
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Undercover Assignment: A special operation could provide a dramatic reason for his absence and a suspenseful comeback.
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Recovery Storyline: If personal struggles are acknowledged on-screen, his return could explore redemption and growth.
Why Fans Are Excited
For longtime viewers, Ruzek is more than a character—he’s a fan favorite whose relationships and growth, particularly with Burgess, have been deeply cherished. His return promises to restore a vital presence in the Intelligence Unit while exploring new dimensions of both his character and the show.
The Bigger Picture
Flueger’s hiatus and upcoming return highlight a broader shift in television: prioritizing actors’ personal well-being while maintaining compelling storytelling. This blend of real-life considerations with on-screen drama enriches the series and underscores the compassion of the Chicago P.D. production team.
As fans eagerly await his comeback in 2026, questions remain: How will the show explain Ruzek’s absence? What impact will his return have on his family and colleagues? And how will this moment shape the future of the series?
One thing is certain: Patrick John Flueger’s return promises to bring heart, loyalty, and complexity back to Chicago P.D., reaffirming why Ruzek has been a standout character for nearly a decade.
