If you’re a fan of Chicago PD, you probably felt the emotional punch when Reid’s character was abruptly killed off. It was shocking, painful, and frankly, confusing for many viewers who had grown attached to him over multiple seasons. So, why did the showrunners decide to take such a drastic step? In this deep dive, we’ll unravel the layers behind Reid’s death, explore the storytelling choices, and discuss what it meant for the series and its audience.
Who Was Reid on Chicago PD? A Quick Recap
Before we dig into why Reid was written off, let’s revisit who he was. Detective Hailey Upton’s partner, Adam Ruzek, and the squad’s tech-savvy and reliable member — Reid was the kind of character who brought nuance and grit to the show. Fans saw his evolution from rookie to a seasoned detective, but his storyline took an unexpected turn, leaving many questions in its wake.
The Writers’ Dilemma: When Characters Cross the Line
One of the most revealing quotes from the showrunners was, “I don’t think we could redeem him.” What does that mean? Essentially, Reid’s character reached a point where his narrative arc couldn’t be salvaged in a way that felt authentic or satisfying. Sometimes in storytelling, a character’s journey takes a dark twist that no redemption can fix — and Reid hit that mark.
How Reid’s Death Serves the Bigger Story
Killing off a beloved character is never just shock value — it usually drives the overall plot forward. Reid’s death added a raw emotional layer to the squad’s dynamics and gave other characters, especially Upton, a reason to evolve. It also introduced a sense of realism — police work is dangerous, and the stakes need to feel real to the audience.
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Process and Network Influence
TV shows don’t operate in a vacuum. Network executives, audience feedback, and even actor availability play roles in such big decisions. Reid’s exit might have been influenced by a mix of these factors. Sometimes, writers have to make tough calls balancing creative vision with practical realities.
How Fans Reacted to Reid’s Death
The fanbase was split — some felt betrayed, others appreciated the gritty honesty. Social media exploded with theories, tributes, and heartfelt messages. It’s clear Reid left a mark, and that’s a testament to how well he was written and portrayed.
The Impact on Chicago PD’s Narrative Tone
Reid’s death shifted the show’s tone to something darker and more serious. It pushed the series away from procedural predictability towards more complex emotional storytelling. This kind of shift can make or break long-running shows, and Chicago PD took a bold step with this.
Could Reid Have Been Redeemed? Why or Why Not
Let’s talk redemption arcs. They’re a staple in TV, but not every character gets one. Reid’s actions and the trajectory he was on painted a picture that was too complicated for a simple redemption. Sometimes, writers choose death to avoid cheapening the story or sending mixed messages.
Character Development vs. Audience Expectations
Balancing character growth with fan desires is a tricky dance. Fans wanted Reid to stick around and grow, but the writers needed to keep the story compelling. This tension often results in controversial decisions, like Reid’s death.
What Reid’s Death Means for Other Characters
When a major character dies, it ripples through the entire cast. Upton’s storyline, the squad’s morale, and even future cases were all impacted. Reid’s death became a catalyst for new plotlines and character growth.
The Role of Morality in Chicago PD’s Storytelling
Chicago PD isn’t afraid to tackle tough moral questions. Reid’s arc challenged ideas of right, wrong, and justice. Killing him off highlighted the grey areas police officers face, making the show more thought-provoking.
Reid’s Death Compared to Other Chicago PD Character Exits
If you’re familiar with the Chicago franchise, you know characters come and go. Reid’s death fits a pattern of high-stakes storytelling where no one is safe — it keeps viewers on edge and invested.
Did Actor Availability Influence Reid’s Exit?
Sometimes behind-the-scenes logistics dictate storylines. While specifics are rarely public, actor contracts and career moves can impact character fates. This might have played a part in Reid’s departure.
How Reid’s Death Reflects Real Police Realities
Shows like Chicago PD aim for authenticity. Unfortunately, police officers face dangers daily, and Reid’s death brought that harsh reality into focus. It made the series resonate more deeply with viewers seeking realism.
Fan Theories and Speculations Post-Reid
After Reid’s death, the internet buzzed with speculation. Was there a chance of a comeback? Was it part of a bigger conspiracy within the show? These theories kept the conversation alive, proving Reid’s lasting impact.
The Future of Chicago PD Without Reid
With Reid gone, the show faces new challenges — filling the void and keeping storylines fresh. How the writers handle this will determine Chicago PD’s continuing success.
Conclusion: Why Reid’s Death Was More Than Just a Plot Twist
Killing off Reid was a calculated, emotional choice by Chicago PD’s creators. It wasn’t about cheap drama — it was about pushing the narrative forward, reflecting real dangers, and evolving the characters. While painful, Reid’s exit added depth and realism that keep the show gripping. Sometimes, saying goodbye is the only way to tell a story honestly.
