Chicago PD Season 12: Ruzek & Burgess’ Fate Illuminates Voight’s Emerging Romance with Chapman

The evolving dynamics of relationships in Chicago PD have kept audiences captivated, especially with the development between Ruzek (John Paul Flueger) and Burgess (Marina Squercianti). As a significant couple in the series, they have faced numerous challenges and are anticipated to take the plunge into marriage in season 12. Having navigated a turbulent past—including a breakup and the complexities of co-parenting their adopted daughter, Makayla (Ramona Edith Williams)—Ruzek and Burgess are finally on a path to stability.

In contrast, the budding relationship between Voight (Jason Beghe) and Chapman (Sara Bues) has emerged as a fresh storyline. Chapman, an Assistant State Attorney, has often found herself in the role of a moral compass for Voight, striving to ensure he doesn’t jeopardize his career. Since her surprising confession of feelings in season 12, episode 4, Chapman has been noticeably absent from the show. Excitingly, she is set to return in episode 15, allowing viewers to witness the implications of her declaration and how it affects her relationship with Voight.

Ruzek & Burgess: A Relationship Transformation

Towards Marriage: A Firm Foundation

The trials and tribulations of Ruzek and Burgess’s relationship have been a consistent source of drama throughout the series. Their romantic tension sparked from their first kiss in season 1, despite Ruzek’s previous engagement. Following a series of unfortunate events—including two failed engagements and a miscarriage—they have ultimately recognized their desire to be together while nurturing their daughter Makayla.

Given this history, it would be inconsistent for the writers to break up Ruzek and Burgess again. Their commitment to co-parenting has underscored their love for one another, emphasizing that any further separation would not only be unrealistic but could also devastate fans. Fortunately, showrunner Gwen Sigan has confirmed that Ruzek and Burgess will remain a strong couple and proceed with their wedding plans.

Voight & Chapman: The New Dynamic Duo

Introducing a New Source of Tension

Chapman and Voight having a serious conversation on Chicago PD

With Ruzek and Burgess solidifying their relationship, Chicago PD requires fresh romantic tension. The evolving interactions between Voight and Chapman present an intriguing possibility for a will-they-won’t-they scenario. While Atwater’s new love interest was short-lived, the chemistry observed between Cook (Toya Turner) and Torres (Benjamin Levy Aguilar) remains largely untapped, primarily due to Torres’s emotional journey following the tragedy of Gloria Perez’s death.

The groundwork for Voight and Chapman’s relationship has already been set, with Chapman signaling a deeper interest than mere professional concern. Her heartfelt admission in season 12, episode 4 has opened doors for further exploration of this unique pairing, which carries its own share of challenges given Chapman’s role in monitoring Voight’s actions.

Exploring the Potential: Voight & Chapman

Obstacles and Opportunities for Drama

Nina Chapman sitting next to Voight in Chicago P.D.

Voight and Chapman face considerable hurdles should they pursue a romantic relationship. Foremost among these is the potential for conflicts between their professional obligations and personal feelings. Voight has always thrived on pushing limits; however, as an ASA, Chapman will be acutely aware of the need for propriety in their interactions. Additionally, Voight’s hesitance in romantic avenues since his wife’s passing complicates matters further. His only prior attempt to connect romantically since her death was a fleeting flirtation with Olivia Benson from Law & Order: SVU.

These dynamics promise compelling narrative tension, prompting Chicago PD to delve deeper into the feasibility of Voight and Chapman’s relationship. As Chapman has taken the initiative to express her feelings, the question remains how Voight will react to her return. His historical reluctance to engage emotionally could lead him to initially resist their connection, creating layers of drama that the series could exploit.

Source & Images