Warning! Spoilers ahead for Chicago PD season 12, episode 9.
Revitalization of Chicago PD in Season 12
Chicago PD has seen its share of disappointing seasons, yet season 12 seems to have addressed various concerns, making the series engaging once again. Originally, it stood out as the premier show among the One Chicago lineup, showcasing the lengths Hank Voight (Jason Beghe) would go to ensure public safety and bring justice to victims. However, in recent installments, the narrative had become conventional, merging into the sea of formulaic police procedurals.
In season 12, the introduction of patrol officer Kiana Cook (Toya Turner) marks a significant shift. This is notable as it is the first time a patrol officer has been involved in the central action since the promotion of Burgess (Marina Squerciati) in season 4. Cook swiftly ascends to the Intelligence Unit, adding new dynamics to the storyline. Her addition aligns with other changes aimed at rejuvenating the series, including the emergence of a formidable new antagonist for Voight, which rekindles the series’ edge.
Understanding Chicago PD’s Recent Challenges: A Look at Viewership Concerns
Consequences of Narrative Issues on Ratings
Initially, the first few seasons of Chicago PD offered significant insight into the complexities of police work. Voight’s moral compromises were often explored, shedding light on his motives. The inclusion of patrol officers illustrated a more complete picture of police operations alongside the Intelligence Unit. However, this aspect began to deteriorate following Atwater’s (LeRoyce Hawkins) promotion at the end of season 1.
The subsequent departures of key characters, including Antonio Dawson (Jon Seda), Jay Halstead (Jesse Lee Soffer), and Hailey Upton (Tracey Spiradakos), have left noticeable voids in the cast, complicating viewer investment in the series. As the patrol officer dynamic vanished after season 4 with Burgess’s promotion, the storytelling became more predictable, often resorting to extreme scenarios for shock value, exemplified by Voight’s kidnapping by a serial killer.
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Chicago PD Average Ratings Over the Last Four Seasons |
|
|---|---|
| Season Number | Average Viewership (in Millions) |
| 9 | 5.836 |
| 10 | 5.272 |
| 11 | 5.148 |
| 12 (so far) | 4.539 |
As a result of these narrative shortcomings, the series has witnessed a consistent decline in viewership, with ratings diminishing since season 8. Currently, season 12’s viewership numbers are the lowest recorded. This trend is unfortunate, particularly since it appears that the show is finally making a comeback; however, the dip in ratings likely reflects the drawbacks encountered in season 11 and the absence of character Upton.
Comparative Performance of Chicago PD Among One Chicago Series
A Decline to Third Place
Once a frontrunner in popularity within the One Chicago franchise, Chicago PD has recently been eclipsed by Chicago Med, which has consistently outperformed in ratings. Currently, season 10 of Chicago Med boasts nearly a million more viewers than Chicago PD, according to analyses. This shift in viewership poses a challenge for the police procedural, previously recognized for its stronger viewer base compared to its medical counterpart.
Various factors contribute to this rating downturn. Chicago Med’s new showrunner has steered the narrative in a compelling direction, which appears to intrigue previously hesitant viewers. High-stakes arcs, such as the prominent storyline involving a stalker, have intensified audience engagement. In contrast, as Chicago Med’s viewership grows and Chicago Fire remains stable, Chicago PD struggles to maintain its audience share.
Chicago PD Season 12: A Return to Form
Storylines Resemble Earlier Seasons
While the series faces challenges due to actors departing after lengthy commitments, the storytelling direction can be adapted to win back audiences. In season 12, a crucial enhancement is the introduction of Deputy Commissioner Charlie Reid (Shawn Hatosy), who serves as a formidable adversary for Voight.
This latest season boasts a rich ensemble of characters, paving the way for intricate plotlines not seen in earlier seasons. Kiana Cook introduces fresh perspectives and diversity, embodying a moral conflict with Voight’s tendency to operate in ethically ambiguous territory. Her presence complements the established characters, allowing for engaging dynamics with Burgess and Ruzek (Patrick Flueger), while evolving Torres (Benjamin Levy Aguilar) into a character reminiscent of Dawson.
Strategies for Chicago PD to Reclaim Its Audience
Reestablish Voight’s Strong Characterization
A major concern for Chicago PD is the dilution of Voight’s character; his transformation into a more subdued version clashes with the series’ core appeal. The show flourished by presenting Voight as the quintessential anti-hero, willing to bend the rules for the right reasons. His character represents the unique identity of Chicago PD among typical police dramas.
To recapture viewership, the series must return Voight to his original persona—one that embodies the heroic outlaw archetype while simultaneously addressing sensitivities towards police ethics. Season 12 has indeed made strides with its Voight versus Reid narrative, but a consistent focus on Voight’s rule-breaking essence is crucial.
Additionally, Chicago PD should strive to move beyond formulaic plots, which have plagued recent seasons. Thankfully, the introduction of Cook signals a potential shift away from this strategy. By bringing character-driven narratives back to the forefront instead of relying on clichéd dramatic scenarios, the series can revive the impactful storytelling that once defined its early years.
References: TV Series Finale, One Chicago Center
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