Chicago PD fans, rejoice! The long wait appears to be over for “Burzek” supporters as fresh behind-the-scenes photos have surfaced, showing Kim Burgess (played by Marina Squerciati) and Adam Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger) back together on set. These exciting images hint at the imminent return of one of the show’s most beloved on-screen couples after Patrick John Flueger’s temporary leave of absence in Season 13.
The photos, shared recently by cast members and picked up across fan sites and social media, mark a major moment for the Intelligence Unit dynamic. After episodes focused on Burgess handling cases solo or with the team while Ruzek dealt with a family emergency involving his father Bob’s health, these BTS shots confirm that production is bringing the pair back into the fold. Fans have been buzzing online, with many calling it the reunion we’ve all been craving since the start of the 2026 episodes.
Why This Reunion Matters So Much to Chicago PD Fans
The relationship between Burgess and Ruzek—affectionately dubbed “Burzek” by the fandom—has been a cornerstone of Chicago PD since the early seasons. Their journey began with flirtatious tension, evolved through breakups, engagements, a pregnancy scare, the adoption of their daughter Makayla, and finally culminated in a heartfelt wedding in the Season 12 finale. That milestone wedding episode delivered emotional highs, with Burgess in a stunning gown and Ruzek beaming as they said “I do” after years of ups and downs.
But Season 13 brought a realistic curveball: Ruzek’s absence due to an emergency with his father, who has been in assisted care battling Alzheimer’s. In recent episodes, Burgess updated Voight and the team that Adam was handling family matters, leaving her to carry cases with Atwater, Torres, and the rest of Intelligence. While the show emphasized family themes and the toll of the job on personal life, fans missed the electric chemistry between Squerciati and Flueger. Their partnership—both professional and romantic—adds layers of tension, support, and heart to every investigation.
These new behind-the-scenes photos change everything. Shared initially through Marina Squerciati’s social media (as part of a set drop that also hyped LaRoyce Hawkins’ Atwater-centric episode), the images show Burgess and Ruzek side by side, in character, ready for action. The casual, smiling poses capture the familiar “work spouses” vibe that has endeared them to viewers for over a decade. It’s a visual promise that Ruzek’s return is near, and Burzek will soon be tackling cases together again.
A Look Back at Burzek’s Iconic Journey
To appreciate why this reunion feels so monumental, let’s revisit the Burzek timeline that has kept fans hooked:
- Early Seasons: Ruzek joins Intelligence as a cocky but skilled officer, clashing and connecting with Burgess. Their banter sparks romance.
- The On-Again, Off-Again Era: Multiple breakups test their bond, including Ruzek’s undercover work and Burgess’s personal struggles.
- Makayla’s Arrival: The adoption of Makayla becomes a turning point, solidifying them as a family unit despite challenges.
- Three Engagements: Each proposal builds anticipation, with the third leading to the long-awaited wedding in Season 12.
- Season 13 Challenges: Ruzek’s family emergency adds depth, showing how the job impacts loved ones, while Burgess steps up as a strong, independent detective.
This history makes the behind-the-scenes reunion photos more than just promo material—they represent the payoff for years of investment in the couple’s story.
What the Photos Reveal and What Fans Are Saying
The images don’t spoil plot points, but they speak volumes. One photo captures Burgess and Ruzek in tactical gear, looking focused yet comfortable in each other’s presence. Another shows them laughing between takes, a reminder of the real-life friendship between Squerciati and Flueger that translates so authentically on screen. These candid moments build excitement for upcoming episodes where Ruzek rejoins the team, likely addressing his absence and how it has affected his marriage and work.
Fan reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and Facebook groups dedicated to One Chicago, comments range from “Finally! Burzek is back!” to detailed theories about how Ruzek’s return will impact ongoing storylines, such as the serial killer arc or Voight’s leadership pressures. Many praise the show’s commitment to realistic character development—balancing high-stakes police work with personal life—while delivering the fan-service moments we crave.
Showrunner Gwen Sigan and the executive producers have teased a more “wholesome” phase for Burzek post-wedding, with Season 13 exploring married life in the Intelligence Unit. Jason Beghe (Voight) has noted that while interoffice romances can complicate things, he supports the couple. These BTS photos align perfectly with those hints, suggesting episodes ahead will feature more teamwork, emotional depth, and perhaps some lighthearted Burzek moments amid the drama.
What This Means for Chicago PD Season 13 Moving Forward
With Ruzek’s return on the horizon, expect shifts in team dynamics. Burgess has proven her strength solo, but having her partner back will bring fresh energy to cases. The show excels at blending procedural action with character-driven stories, and Burzek’s reunion offers opportunities for powerful scenes—whether discussing family emergencies, supporting each other in the field, or simply sharing quiet moments at home with Makayla.
For viewers who have followed since Season 1, this feels like a full-circle moment. Chicago PD has always thrived on its ensemble, but pairs like Burzek give the series its emotional core. The behind-the-scenes photos aren’t just exciting—they signal that the show is listening to fans and delivering what we love most.
In conclusion, these new Chicago PD behind-the-scenes photos of Burgess and Ruzek reunited are more than a tease; they’re a celebration of enduring fan-favorite chemistry and storytelling. As Patrick John Flueger steps back into the role, the Intelligence Unit—and Burzek fans—can look forward to thrilling cases, heartfelt moments, and the return of one of TV’s most compelling couples. Stay tuned to NBC Wednesdays at 10/9c for what’s next. The wait is almost over—Burzek is back!
