Adam Ruzek is stepping away from the Intelligence Unit — at least temporarily.
Patrick John Flueger, known for his role in “Chicago P.D.,” is taking a break from the NBC police drama to address a personal issue, according to a report by Deadline.
Flueger, who has been a part of the series since its inception in 2014, is 41 years old. His unexpected hiatus has prompted a last-minute rewrite of scripts to accommodate his character’s absence.
The actor is expected to make a comeback later in the season.
The Post has contacted NBC for additional information.
Flueger’s character, Ruzek, tied the knot with his longstanding love interest, Detective Kim Burgess (played by Marina Squerciati), at the end of Season 12. The couple, a fan favorite in the Chicago franchise, adopted a daughter named Makayla in Season 8.
Flueger and Squerciati, 41, opened up about their onscreen chemistry and relationship during an interview with Us Weekly in 2022.
“My favorite thing about this relationship is, I think it’s one of the most realistic relationships on screen as far as adults are concerned. It’s complicated. It’s not easy. And they lean on each other and they hurt each other and they beat each other up,” Flueger said at the time.
“It’s so different. When have you seen that before? I don’t know if we worked it into that groove or if the writers did, or if people even are aware that that’s where our characters live. All I know is that it is really interesting to play.”
For several seasons, the pair were a “will they, won’t they” scenario for audiences.
“I think at the end of the day, they’ll end up together, but I don’t think it’s an easy road to get there,” Fleuger added.
Last year, Squerciati noted that the duo have a “great relationship” and “deserve” to have a happy ending, which they ultimately got.
The Chicago universe is used to having a revolving door for actors who need a break. “Chicago Fire” star Taylor Kinney also recently took a leave of absence in early 2023 to deal with a personal matter.
Flueger has previously been featured in the TV movie “Hatfields & McCoys,” 2011’s “Footloose” remake and 2001’s “The Princess Diaries.”
“Chicago P.D.” also stars Jason Beghe, LaRoyce Hawkins and Amy Morton. Notable previous cast members include Sophia Bush, Jesse Lee Soffer, and Tracy Spiridakos.
“Chicago P.D.” is currently airing Season 13.
