Fans of NBC’s Chicago P.D. were treated to a heartwarming glimpse behind the scenes this week as stars Benjamin Levy Aguilar and Arienne Mandi shared memories of the very first time they met on set. Their recollections, filled with laughter and affection, highlighted not just the beginnings of their professional relationship but also the genuine friendship that has flourished over the years.
Aguilar, known for his role as Detective Kevin Torres, and Mandi, who portrays Detective Kim Burgess, spoke candidly about the nerves and excitement that accompanied their initial encounter. “I remember walking onto set for the first day, and there she was,” Aguilar recalled with a smile. “We both had that mix of curiosity and ‘I hope I don’t make a fool of myself’ energy. It’s funny to look back now and see how that moment set the tone for our entire working relationship.”
Mandi chimed in, sharing that she immediately felt a sense of camaraderie. “There was this instant connection,” she said. “We just clicked—professionally and personally. I think we both knew that we’d be able to rely on each other on and off the camera, which made everything easier as we got deeper into the show’s intense storylines.”
Their reminiscing also highlighted the unique dynamics of the Chicago P.D. set, where action-packed scenes, high-stakes investigations, and emotionally charged storylines can make the environment challenging. “Having someone you trust from day one makes a huge difference,” Aguilar explained. “Arienne is one of those people you know has your back, no matter what scene we’re shooting or how intense things get.”
Fans were delighted by the chemistry and mutual respect between the actors, which has been evident throughout the series. Social media quickly lit up with clips from their interview, showing Aguilar and Mandi laughing together as they recalled amusing first impressions and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Many viewers noted that this warmth off-camera translates seamlessly to their on-screen partnership, adding depth and authenticity to their characters’ interactions.
The actors’ reflections also underscore the importance of relationships in long-running television productions. “Working on a show like Chicago P.D. is more than just memorizing lines and hitting marks,” Mandi noted. “It’s about building trust, sharing experiences, and creating a supportive environment. That foundation makes the storytelling stronger and the day-to-day work more enjoyable.”
As Chicago P.D. continues to captivate audiences with compelling cases and character-driven narratives, the bond between Aguilar and Mandi serves as a reminder of the human connections that bring television to life. Their initial meeting, once a small and seemingly ordinary moment, has blossomed into a professional partnership and friendship that fans admire just as much as the detectives they portray.
