In a surprise move, longtime Chicago P.D. cast member Patrick John Flueger, who has portrayed Detective Adam Ruzek since the series premiered in 2014, is taking a temporary leave of absence to deal with a personal matter. According to multiple reports, the show’s production team is already adjusting scripts and schedules to accommodate his time away.
Since the show’s debut, Ruzek has been a core part of the Intelligence Unit under Sergeant Hank Voight (Jason Beghe). His evolution from a rookie undercover cop to one of Voight’s most trusted officers has anchored several of the show’s most emotional and action-driven storylines. Ruzek’s loyalty and impulsive streak have made him both a fan favorite and a constant source of tension within the team.
Flueger, born and raised in Red Wing, Minnesota, is known for maintaining a low-profile personal life, despite his longtime presence in one of NBC’s most successful franchises.
The actor has been in a steady relationship with model and actress Reem Amara since 2019. The couple occasionally shares glimpses of their travels on social media but otherwise keeps their life together private.
While no further details have been shared about the nature of Flueger’s current leave, sources emphasize that the decision was made for personal reasons and he remains committed to returning to the show. In the meantime, Chicago P.D. is rewriting scripts to explain his absence and shift focus toward other members of the ensemble. Detective Ruzek is expected to return to the Intelligence team later in the season.
Chicago P.D. airs at 9 p.m. (CT) on Wednesdays on NBC.
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