Chicago PD has never shied away from leaving its audience on edge, but the Season 12 finale pulls off a move that long-time fans couldn’t have seen coming — by repeating one of its most shocking twists from a decade ago.
The twist in question harks back to the unexpected death of Alvin Olinsky (played by Elias Koteas) in Season 5. When Olinsky, a beloved character, was killed off after being wrongfully imprisoned, it sent shockwaves through the fandom. It wasn’t just his death but the way it unfolded — a mix of emotional depth and raw brutality — that made it so unforgettable. Season 12’s finale mirrors this unforgettable moment, but with an even bigger twist, proving that the writers are masters of suspense.
In the final moments of Season 12, the Intelligence Unit is once again rocked by tragedy. A core team member, long believed to be untouchable, meets a similar fate as Olinsky — and it’s this sense of déjà vu that brings the storyline full circle. The emotional gravity, paired with the sudden and brutal nature of the death, feels like an homage to the dark realism Chicago PD has always embraced. Fans are left questioning if any of their favorite characters are truly safe.
While the shock value is high, the twist serves as more than just a plot device. It forces the remaining characters, particularly Voight (Jason Beghe) and Burgess (Marina Squerciati), to confront their own sense of vulnerability and mortality. Voight, who has already lost so much, now faces the consequences of his leadership and the weight of losing another team member on his watch. Burgess, who has evolved into a central character over the past seasons, is also pushed to her breaking point, potentially setting up a new direction for her character in Season 13.
With the death of a key player, the dynamics of the Intelligence Unit are bound to shift dramatically. The ripple effect of this loss will undoubtedly be explored in future episodes, as the team struggles to maintain its balance and sense of purpose. This shocking ending also leaves viewers speculating: will another new face join the team, or will this loss change the Intelligence Unit forever?
As the dust settles, one thing is clear — Chicago PD has mastered the art of bringing back its most intense moments while keeping the stakes fresh and unpredictable. Season 12’s finale, by repeating its most shocking twist from 10 years ago, reminds us why this show remains a powerhouse in the crime drama genre. Fans are already eager to see how the team will move forward and what new challenges they’ll face in the next season.
