The sirens returning for Chicago P.D. on January 7, 2026, are drowning out a much darker sound: the silence of a crew that has reached its breaking point. While the mid-season premiere, “Impulse Control,” promises a “chilling” new case for Voight, the real chill happened behind the scenes during the November filming sessions.
We’ve obtained a series of “Red-Flag Reports” from the 21st District set that explain why the atmosphere has turned radioactive.
1. THE ‘RUZEK’ INTOXICATION SCANDAL: Why Patrick Flueger Really Vanished
The biggest “giật tít” (shocking) news of Season 13 was the sudden, unexplained “leave of absence” of Patrick John Flueger (Adam Ruzek).
The On-Set Crisis: Multiple sources confirm that Flueger was escorted off-set in late October after “unprofessional behavior” during a high-stakes stunt scene. Reports allege alcohol use on set during a difficult personal period for the actor.
The Crew’s Reaction: It wasn’t just the producers who were angry. The camera and stunt crews reportedly “kept their distance” and refused to work on Flueger’s close-ups until safety protocols were reassessed.
The 2026 Status: While Flueger was spotted back on set in December, the “vibe” is described as ice-cold. Rumors suggest his return in the January 7 episode is a “probationary trial”—one more slip-up, and Ruzek is gone for good.
2. THE ‘VOIGHT’ BLACKMAIL: Jason Beghe’s Real-Life Legal Shadow?
In the show, Sgt. Hank Voight is being blackmailed by IA Commander Devlin to resign. But the “meta-scandal” is even juicier.
The ‘Boys’ Club’ Revival: With the return of Sophia Bush to the news cycle (alleging years of “abusive behavior” on set), the spotlight is back on Jason Beghe.
The Mutation of the Set: Insiders say the crew members are “walking on eggshells.” There’s a rumor that a junior staffer filed a fresh “hostile environment” complaint in December 2025, leading to a massive internal HR investigation that is currently threatening to shut down production by February.
3. THE ‘IMANI’ USURPER: Why the Crew Prefers the Newbie
While the fans are mourning the lack of “Burzek” scenes, the crew is reportedly forming a “Team Imani” camp.
Arienne Mandi (Imani) has become the unexpected favorite of the technical staff. Unlike the “old guard” who are embroiled in contract disputes, Mandi is reportedly “on time, prepared, and drama-free.”
The Displacement: The crew’s obvious preference for Mandi is creating a visible rift with Marina Squerciati (Kim Burgess). Sources claim that during the filming of Impulse Control, Squerciati and Mandi had a “heated disagreement” over a tactical scene, leading the director to clear the set for an hour to cool things down.
4. THE ‘CHICAGO WINTER’ BREAKING POINT
It’s not just the drama; it’s the frost.
The Strike Threat: Beyond the actor drama, the below-the-line crew is reportedly “exhausted” by the 14-hour shoots in sub-zero Chicago temperatures.
The Mutiny: During the week of December 15, a group of lighting technicians allegedly refused to work outside until the production provided “upgraded heating trailers,” which were reportedly cut from the 2026 budget to cover the high salaries of the lead actors.
THE VERDICT: A UNIT DIVIDED
When you watch “Impulse Control” on January 7, pay attention to the wide shots. You’ll notice the actors aren’t standing as close together as they used to. The “brotherhood” of the Intelligence Unit is a myth; the reality is a set where the crew keeps their distance and the stars are one scandal away from the unemployment line.
