The Ruzek Files: 5 Shocking Updates On Patrick John Flueger’s Life And Return To Chicago P.D. In 2025
Patrick John Flueger, the actor best known for his decade-long portrayal of Officer Adam Ruzek on NBC's hit drama *Chicago P.D.*, has been the subject of intense fan speculation following a brief, unexpected hiatus from the show's set in late 2025. This sudden "leave of absence" sparked immediate concern about the future of one of the *One Chicago* franchise's original stars.
As of December 2025, the good news for the "Burzek" faithful is that the Red Wing, Minnesota native has officially returned to production for the current 13th season of the police procedural. While the reason for the break remains private, his return quashes rumors of a permanent exit and refocuses attention on the actor's life, career milestones, and the evolving storyline of his beloved character, a fan-favorite member of the Intelligence Unit.
Patrick John Flueger: A Complete Biographical Profile
Patrick John Flueger has built a career on playing complex characters, from a telekinetic "returnee" to a dedicated, often reckless, police officer. His journey from a small-town start to a major network television star is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal.
- Full Name: Patrick John Flueger
- Date of Birth: December 10, 1983
- Age (as of December 2025): 42
- Birthplace: Red Wing, Minnesota, USA
- Nationality: American
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
- Current Partner: Reem Amara (Dating since 2019)
- Notable TV Roles: Shawn Farrell (*The 4400*), Officer Adam Ruzek (*Chicago P.D.*, *Chicago Fire*, *Chicago Med*)
- Notable Film Roles: Jeremiah Hart (*The Princess Diaries*), Rusty (*The World's Fastest Indian*), Chuck Cranston (*Footloose*)
The Shocking 2025 Hiatus and Triumphant Return to Chicago P.D.
The most recent and significant development in Patrick John Flueger’s career is his brief, but widely reported, leave of absence from the *Chicago P.D.* set in the latter half of 2025. This news broke in October and was a major talking point for fans of the *One Chicago* universe.
Flueger, who has played Officer Adam Ruzek since the pilot episode in 2014, is one of the few remaining original cast members. His temporary departure led to the character being written out of several episodes, leaving Ruzek's fate ambiguous for a short time.
However, by December 2025, the actor was confirmed to be back in production. Co-star Marina Squerciati (who plays his on-screen partner, Detective Kim Burgess) shared a video celebrating his return, much to the relief of the show's dedicated viewership. This development suggests that Officer Ruzek will return to the screen in the early episodes of 2026, as the 13th season of *Chicago P.D.* continues its run.
While the exact reason for the personal leave was not disclosed, the focus now shifts back to the intense, complex storylines that await Ruzek, including his impending marriage to Kim Burgess and his new role as a father, juggling the demands of the Intelligence Unit with his family life.
From 'The 4400' to the 'One Chicago' Franchise: A Career Retrospective
Before becoming a staple of the Chicago Police Department, Patrick John Flueger first gained widespread recognition for a completely different kind of procedural drama: the sci-fi series *The 4400*.
From 2004 to 2007, Flueger played Shawn Farrell, one of the 4,400 people who vanished over the past century and were returned in a single moment, each with a unique ability. Farrell's power of telekinesis and healing made him a central figure in the show's narrative, establishing Flueger as a compelling lead actor.
His early career also included a memorable role as Jeremiah Hart, the love interest of Mia Thermopolis in the 2001 classic film *The Princess Diaries*. This role showcased his ability to handle lighter material before he transitioned into more dramatic and action-oriented roles in films like *The World's Fastest Indian* (2005) and the 2011 remake of *Footloose*, where he played the antagonist Chuck Cranston.
The transition to the *One Chicago* universe proved to be his most enduring role. As Adam Ruzek, Flueger has explored themes of corruption, redemption, fatherhood, and surviving the psychological toll of working in the CPD Intelligence Unit. His character’s relationship with Kim Burgess, affectionately dubbed "Burzek" by fans, is one of the franchise's most popular and long-running romances.
Patrick John Flueger’s Personal Life: Girlfriend Reem Amara and Past Relationships
While his on-screen life is often tumultuous, Flueger maintains a relatively low profile regarding his personal life. However, his long-term relationship with model and actress Reem Amara has been public since 2019.
Flueger first posted about Amara on social media in April 2019, and the pair have been seen together at various events. Amara, who is also an actress, has appeared in films such as *The Super* (2017), which also starred Flueger, though the nature of their involvement in that film is not the primary source of their relationship.
The couple's bond is strong, with Amara often featuring in Flueger’s social media posts. Despite some fan confusion and media reports that occasionally refer to them as married, they are currently dating and have not publicly announced a marriage.
Prior to his relationship with Reem Amara, Flueger was linked to other actresses, including Briana Evigan (2010-2013) and Carly Pope (2005-2008), demonstrating a pattern of dating within the entertainment industry.
The Future of Adam Ruzek in Chicago P.D. Season 13
With Patrick John Flueger back on the set, the focus shifts entirely to the narrative implications of his character's return. Officer Adam Ruzek has a complex path ahead in the ongoing season.
The character has recently dealt with profound personal challenges, including a major shooting incident and the complex dynamics of co-parenting his daughter, Makayla, with Kim Burgess. The next chapter will explore the highly anticipated "Burzek" wedding, a storyline that has been years in the making for the *Chicago P.D.* fans.
Flueger's commitment to the role and the show's enduring success suggest that Officer Adam Ruzek will continue to be a cornerstone of the Intelligence Unit, navigating the high-stakes world of the Chicago Police Department alongside his co-stars. His return ensures that the *One Chicago* franchise remains intact and ready to deliver the fresh, compelling drama fans expect in 2026.
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