The Windy City may be freezing, but the “One Chicago” fandom is officially in a meltdown. Just weeks after the bombshell news that Patrick John Flueger would be taking a temporary “leave of absence” from his role as Adam Ruzek on Chicago P.D., the actor has finally surfaced.
Breaking his low-profile streak, Flueger made a stunning public appearance that has sent social media into a frenzy. This isn’t just a sighting; it is a calculated “I’m still here” to a fanbase currently grieving the temporary loss of Intelligence’s most explosive detective.
1. The Appearance That Stopped Traffic
Ditching the tactical gear and scruffy undercover look of the 21st District, Flueger was spotted attending a high-profile arts event in Chicago alongside long-time co-star and “on-screen wife” Marina Squerciati.
The Look: Looking remarkably relaxed and “un-Ruzek-like,” Patrick opted for a sophisticated, dapper ensemble that screamed “leading man.” His appearance—vibrant, healthy, and smiling—has immediately shut down some of the darker rumors regarding why he requested time off from the grueling Season 14 production schedule.
The “Burzek” Connection: The fact that his first public outing was with Marina Squerciati is no accident. For fans, seeing the “Burzek” duo united off-screen provides a much-needed emotional safety net while the show navigates his character’s mysterious absence in the upcoming January 7, 2026 return.
2. Why the Leave of Absence? The Mystery Continues
When NBC confirmed Flueger would be stepping back for a portion of the 2026 arc, they remained tight-lipped about the specifics.
Personal Growth or Plot Device? While the official word remains “personal reasons,” industry insiders suggest the hiatus was a negotiated break following a decade of intense, physically demanding stunt work.
The On-Screen Cover: Within the world of Chicago P.D., Ruzek’s absence is being written as a “deep undercover assignment” or a “recharge” after the traumatic events of the Season 13 finale. This public outing confirms that while Adam Ruzek might be “underground,” Patrick John Flueger is very much enjoying the Chicago limelight.
3. The “Marina” Factor: A United Front
Squerciati’s social media posts featuring Flueger from the night were flooded with comments. The duo used the platform to advocate for the Chicago arts scene, specifically the 30th anniversary of Smashing Pumpkins’ Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness.
The Message: By appearing together, they are signaling to the network and the fans that the “Burzek” partnership is the show’s top priority. Even if Ruzek is off-screen for a few episodes, the bond between the actors remains the show’s strongest asset.
4. What This Means for January 7, 2026
Don’t expect Ruzek to be at the desk when the winter premiere, “The Ledger,” airs. However, this public appearance is the clearest sign yet that his leave of absence is exactly that—temporary.
The Return Strategy: Rumors suggest that Flueger has already filmed a series of “check-in” scenes to be sprinkled throughout the episodes he “misses,” ensuring fans don’t go through “Ruzek withdrawal.”
