All Eyes on Burzek”: ‘Chicago P.D.’ Cast Reflects on the Pressure and Excitement Behind Season 12’s Emotional Finale

After over a decade of heartbreak, second chances, and emotional growth, Chicago P.D. Season 12 finally gives fans what they’ve long been waiting for: the Burzek wedding. For loyal viewers who’ve watched Kim Burgess and Adam Ruzek’s rollercoaster relationship unfold since the early seasons, this moment feels like a hard-earned victory. But according to the cast, filming the emotional finale wasn’t just exciting — it was also nerve-racking.

“It was a lot of pressure,” said Marina Squerciati, who has played Officer Kim Burgess since Season 1. “The fans have been with Burzek through every up and down. We knew this wedding meant something. It wasn’t just another scene. It had to feel authentic to their journey.”

That journey, spanning more than ten seasons, has been anything but smooth. From professional conflicts and personal trauma to raising a child together, Burgess and Ruzek have endured just about everything. And while many couples in the One Chicago universe have fizzled out or stayed in limbo, Burzek remained at the center — messy, real, and unforgettable. Patrick John Flueger, who plays Adam Ruzek, echoed Squerciati’s sentiments. “This wedding is not about two perfect people getting married,” he said. “It’s about two people who have gone through hell — and still chose each other.”

Fans have watched them fight, reconcile, break up, and rebuild — often in heartbreaking circumstances. Their relationship has always been grounded in love, but tested by life on the job and the violence that comes with it. That’s why the wedding isn’t just symbolic; it’s emotional closure, a moment of peace after years of storm.  Behind the scenes, the pressure to deliver was immense. Social media has long buzzed with #BurzekWedding theories, wish lists, and even fan-made scripts. The showrunners knew expectations were sky-high. “We felt the weight of the fans,” Squerciati admitted. “They’ve waited for so long, and we didn’t want to let them down.”

The result? A beautifully intimate ceremony that reflects the couple’s bond — not flashy, not over-the-top, but deeply emotional. According to Flueger, much thought was given to making it feel personal. He worked with the writers to shape Ruzek’s vows, ensuring they showed the character’s growth from impulsive hothead to committed father and partner.

Marina also collaborated with the costume department to find the perfect wedding look for Kim. “We knew she wouldn’t go for something traditional,” she said. “No ball gowns. We wanted something soft, understated — beautiful, but practical. That’s Kim.”

One of the most touching parts of the wedding is the inclusion of Makayla, their adopted daughter. For both actors, this element was key. “This isn’t just about a couple. It’s about a family,” Flueger said. “Makayla being there makes it real.” Indeed, Makayla’s presence isn’t just symbolic — it’s a reminder of everything the couple has fought for. Her inclusion underscores the idea that this wedding isn’t just a happy ending. It’s a promise of stability, of healing, of building a life that puts love first.

The emotional weight of the episode wasn’t lost on the rest of the cast. “There were tears on set,” shared LaRoyce Hawkins, who plays Officer Atwater. “We’ve all seen these characters grow. Watching Marina and Patrick film those scenes — it felt like watching real people say ‘I do.’”

But in true Chicago P.D. fashion, the wedding doesn’t come without drama. Before they can walk down the aisle, Burzek face one final challenge — a dangerous case that reminds them just how fragile life can be. Showrunner Gwen Sigan explained that the juxtaposition was intentional. “We wanted to show what they were risking. You can’t fully appreciate love without understanding the cost.”

The finale also impacts the broader Chicago P.D. team. With changes coming to the Intelligence Unit — including Voight facing leadership dilemmas and Trudy contemplating retirement — the wedding offers a rare moment of joy amidst uncertainty. It’s a brief but powerful pause that brings the squad together and reminds them why they do what they do.

By Admin