Chicago P.D. has never shied away from tackling tough and emotional storylines, and Adam Ruzek’s latest challenge is one of his most personal yet. In an exclusive interview, Patrick John Flueger, who portrays Ruzek, delves into the deeply moving arc surrounding his character’s father and his heartbreaking Alzheimer’s diagnosis. As Ruzek struggles to balance his high-risk job with the painful reality of watching his father’s health decline, fans are in for one of the most emotional performances of Flueger’s career.
A Devastating Diagnosis That Hits Close to Home
Throughout the series, Ruzek has been known for his fearless approach to policing, his unwavering loyalty to the team, and his complicated relationship with Kim Burgess. But when his father, Bob Ruzek (played by Jack Coleman), begins exhibiting signs of Alzheimer’s, everything shifts. For a man who has spent his life in control, the realization that he can’t protect his father from this disease is a gut-wrenching blow. In his interview, Flueger reveals the depth of Ruzek’s emotional turmoil. “Ruzek has always looked up to his father,” Flueger explains. “Even when they didn’t see eye to eye, there was always a level of respect. Now, he’s watching the strongest man he knows slowly slip away, and there’s nothing he can do to stop it.”
How Ruzek Copes—Or Fails to Cope
One of the most compelling aspects of this storyline is how it forces Ruzek to confront his own emotions in a way he never has before. As a cop, he’s trained to handle high-stakes situations with precision and strength. But dealing with a loved one’s cognitive decline is something entirely different. “This is a guy who rushes into danger without hesitation,” Flueger says. “But he can’t punch his way out of this. He can’t fix it. That helplessness is something he’s never really had to face before.”
Viewers will see Ruzek struggle to navigate this new reality—turning to his colleagues for support, lashing out in frustration, and ultimately trying to find a way to cherish the time he has left with his father. The storyline also provides a unique opportunity for Flueger to showcase a more vulnerable side of Ruzek, something fans have been eager to see.
The Impact on Ruzek’s Relationships
This devastating development doesn’t just affect Ruzek—it also influences his relationship with those around him. Burgess, who has seen Ruzek at both his best and worst, plays a crucial role in helping him cope. Their bond, which has already endured immense challenges, is tested once again as Burgess becomes a pillar of support. Additionally, Ruzek’s relationships with Voight and the rest of Intelligence take on new dimensions. “The team is like his family,” Flueger notes. “But he’s not the best at asking for help. There’s this internal battle—does he open up and lean on them, or does he shut down completely?”
Bringing Awareness to Alzheimer’s Through Storytelling
Beyond being an emotionally charged storyline, this arc also shines a light on Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects millions of families worldwide. Chicago P.D. has a history of tackling real-world issues with authenticity, and this storyline is no exception. Flueger emphasizes the importance of telling this story in a way that resonates with viewers. “This is something so many people deal with,” he says. “I hope that by showing Ruzek’s journey, we can bring awareness to what families go through—the grief, the confusion, the love, and the fight to hold on to the moments that matter.”
What’s Next for Ruzek?
As the season progresses, Ruzek will be forced to make difficult decisions regarding his father’s care, all while juggling the pressures of his career. Will he be able to balance his duty as a police officer with his responsibility as a son? Or will the weight of it all push him to his breaking point? One thing is certain—Flueger’s portrayal of Ruzek in this storyline is set to be one of the most powerful and moving performances in Chicago P.D. history. Fans should prepare for an emotional ride as Ruzek navigates one of the hardest battles he’s ever faced—not on the streets, but at home.
