Chicago P.D. is set to face another major change in season 13 as Patrick John Flueger, who portrays Adam Ruzek, steps away from the series temporarily. Flueger has been part of the show since its very first episode, making him one of the last remaining original cast members. Alongside him, only a handful of veterans remain, including Jason Beghe (Hank Voight), Marina Squerciati (Kim Burgess), and LaRoyce Hawkins (Kevin Atwater).
According to a report from Deadline, Flueger is officially taking a leave of absence from Chicago P.D. during season 13. While he is expected to return later in the season, the reason for his temporary departure is tied to a personal matter. Specific details about the situation have not been disclosed, but the report indicates that the actor has been going through a difficult period recently, prompting the decision to step back for a time.
As a result, viewers can expect Adam Ruzek to be missing from several upcoming episodes. However, it remains unclear exactly when his last appearance before the break will air. Since NBC has only recently confirmed the news, Flueger may still appear in a few more early season 13 episodes before his temporary exit takes effect. Until then, fans can savor the remaining on-screen moments with Ruzek before he says goodbye—for now.
At this point, how Chicago P.D. will explain Ruzek’s absence within the story remains unknown. Deadline’s report does not provide any details about the narrative plan, only revealing that the writers are currently reworking future scripts to accommodate his sudden departure. Because the leave was unexpected, the creative team is reportedly racing to adjust upcoming episodes accordingly.
Several possible storylines could explain Ruzek’s time away. One likely option involves his father, who is battling Alzheimer’s disease and currently living in a nursing home. If his condition worsens, Ruzek could understandably take time off from Intelligence to care for him. Another possibility connects to the recent conversation between Ruzek and Burgess in season 13, episode 3, where they discussed moving in order to secure a better school for Makayla, which is located about an hour away from their current home in Canaryville.
Ruzek might choose to step back from active duty to sort out his family’s future and decide what is best for Makayla. Of course, the show could also opt for a simpler explanation, such as sending him away for specialized training or a long-term assignment. Whatever direction the writers choose, one thing is certain: One Chicago is temporarily losing one of its original faces, and much of the story remains up in the air.
Despite the uncertainty, there is no indication that Flueger’s departure will be permanent. Temporary leaves have happened before across the One Chicago universe, and most actors who stepped away eventually returned. A recent example is Taylor Kinney, who reprised his role as Kelly Severide in Chicago Fire season 12 after a 10-month break.
Likewise, Deadline’s report makes it clear that Flueger is expected to return as Ruzek later in Chicago P.D. season 13. Whether that comeback happens after just a few episodes, before the midseason finale in late 2025, or closer to the season finale in spring 2026 remains unknown. For now, all that can be confirmed is that Ruzek will be absent for a portion of the season—but he will be back before it ends.
Until then, fans can take some comfort in knowing that Ruzek’s exit is only temporary, and his story with Intelligence is far from over. The hope is that his absence won’t disrupt the larger plans the writers have in store for season 13.
Chicago P.D. airs on NBC. Don’t miss the latest developments and stay tuned to see how the show handles Ruzek’s temporary departure—and eventual return.
