Chicago P.D. star Patrick John Flueger opened up about his character, Officer Adam Ruzek, and the struggles he faces with his colleague and close friend, Officer Kim Burgess’ promotion.
According to Flueger, Ruzek’s struggle stems from a mix of emotions rooted in both his protective instincts and his feelings of inadequacy. Throughout the show, Ruzek has always been deeply invested in the welfare of those closest to him, particularly Burgess, whom he has worked alongside and shared personal experiences with. His issue with her promotion isn’t necessarily rooted in jealousy or resentment but rather in a complex mix of fear and the dynamic shift that comes with her new role. As Burgess is promoted to a leadership position, Ruzek, who has always seen her as an equal, now finds himself grappling with the reality that their professional relationship will be changing.
Flueger explained that Ruzek’s feelings are complicated because he has always seen Burgess as a teammate. He knows she’s incredibly capable and deserving of the promotion, but the change forces him to face the evolving nature of their partnership, and that’s difficult for him to accept. It’s clear that Ruzek still wants to protect Burgess, but the shift in their roles challenges his understanding of their connection, leading to inner conflict. His reluctance is also a result of his own professional insecurities and the pressure of living up to expectations within the police force.
As Chicago P.D. fans continue to watch these characters navigate personal and professional challenges, Ruzek’s discomfort with Burgess’ promotion will serve as a key storyline that explores loyalty, personal growth, and the intricacies of close relationships in high-stakes environments. With both characters continuing to grow in their roles, viewers can expect to see how Ruzek and Burgess will handle their new professional dynamic while maintaining the strong connection that has defined their partnership throughout the series.
