Behind the Scenes and Beyond the Badge—Why This Season Promises to Be Unmissable

When the iconic Chicago skyline shimmers in the summer sun, a different kind of electricity surges through the heart of the city. This isn’t just Chicago preparing for another bustling day—it’s the city primed to host the thirteenth season of one of television’s most riveting police dramas: Chicago PD. As the cameras prepare to roll around July 24th, 2025, anticipation buzzes through the city’s arteries. But before sirens wail and justice is served on screen, a hidden army of creative minds and dedicated professionals works tirelessly behind the scenes, laying the foundation for what promises to be a season brimming with suspense, humanity, and raw, unfiltered storytelling.

From Concept to Camera: The Alchemy of Storytelling

The creation of each season of Chicago PD is a complex dance of inspiration, collaboration, and relentless dedication. Before a single badge is pinned, before a single chase erupts in the streets, the writer’s room transforms into a creative laboratory where possibilities are born, destroyed, and reborn again.

In these earliest weeks, the writing team might possibly begin with a broad vision for the new season. What challenges will Sergeant Hank Voight and his team face? Which character arcs will be resolved, and which new mysteries will emerge from Chicago’s shadows? Each idea is weighed, tested, and pulled apart. Writers debate, defend, and ultimately build a meticulous blueprint for the season—an outline that details the emotional and narrative journey of every episode.

Once this skeleton is crafted, the process deepens: each episode’s story is shaped into a treatment, laying out character arcs, plot twists, and the emotional beats that will shock, delight, and devastate loyal fans. The transformation from treatment to script is a painstaking one. Every line of dialogue, every visual cue, and every camera angle is described in detail. Writers immerse themselves in the voices of the characters, ensuring that even a simple exchange between Ruzek and Burgess drips with the weight of a dozen shared seasons.

The scripts are far from final at this stage. Instead, they become living documents, constantly evolving as they are passed between writers, producers, network executives, and—occasionally—the actors themselves, whose deep understanding of their roles can help sharpen the emotional truth of each scene. It is not uncommon for a script to undergo a dozen revisions before it is considered ready for a table read, let alone filming. Through these repeated refinements, the pulse of Chicago PD is set, and the season’s momentum begins to surge.

The Visionaries Behind the Words

It’s easy to forget that behind every episode’s edge-of-your-seat drama lies the sweat and imagination of a devoted group of writers and showrunners. In interviews, veteran writers have described the creative process as “controlled chaos.” Collaboration is key—one writer might specialize in high-octane action sequences, while another excels at weaving in the emotional undertones that have become the show’s hallmark.

This season, expect the writing team to dive even deeper into themes of loyalty, justice, and the moral ambiguities faced by law enforcement. Interviews and leaks hint at storylines exploring the personal cost of service, the toll of unending violence, and the hope that can flourish even in the darkest corners of Chicago’s complex landscape.

Fan Feedback and Real-World Influence

Over the years, the writers have also shown a remarkable ability to listen. Fan forums, social media feedback, and even direct fan mail are carefully scrutinized—not just for praise or criticism, but for the recurring themes viewers want to see tackled. Recent seasons have reflected real-world developments, from shifts in policing to wider social issues, ensuring the stories remain relevant, nuanced, and, at times, deeply provocative.

The Windy City Becomes a Character Once More

Chicago isn’t just a backdrop for the action—it’s a living, breathing entity, as integral to the show as any member of the cast. Each season, the city’s legendary skyline, gritty neighborhoods, and bustling streets are woven into the narrative fabric, giving the series its unique sense of realism.

Scouting the Perfect Locations

The process begins with the location manager and their team, who scour the city for sites that match the vision of the writers and director. The UIC Police Station, a longtime stand-in for District 21, will once again anchor the show’s visual identity. But the team isn’t content with the familiar—they are always on the hunt for fresh perspectives. From the sunlit banks of the Chicago River to the shadowed alleys of Pilsen, each site is chosen for its atmosphere, authenticity, and ability to serve the story.

According to reports from Giggster and local sources, neighborhoods, businesses, and even iconic landmarks are carefully considered for their dramatic potential. The selection isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about logistics. The team must navigate parking restrictions, local regulations, and the day-to-day life of the city itself, all while ensuring minimal disruption to residents and businesses.

Permits, Permissions, and Partnerships

Securing the right to film in these diverse locations is a challenge unto itself. It requires months of planning, negotiation, and paperwork. The production office works hand in hand with the city, police, and local councils to obtain the necessary permits, organize traffic control, and notify neighborhoods of upcoming shoots.

Community engagement is crucial, and the production is known for its efforts to foster goodwill. Residents may receive advance notice letters, and local businesses sometimes benefit from the influx of cast, crew, and fans. There are stories of shop owners who have had their establishments featured in key scenes, delighting regular customers and drawing TV tourists for months afterward.

Inside Cinespace Studios: Home Base for Drama

While the city provides authenticity, much of the magic happens within the walls of Cinespace Studios Chicago. Here, the familiar sets of District 21 are painstakingly maintained and upgraded. The front desk, intelligence office, motor pool, and lockup are all dressed to reflect script changes, from new evidence boards to subtle shifts in décor that eagle-eyed fans love to spot.

Production designers collaborate closely with the director and writers to ensure each set feels lived-in and real. This season, expect to see subtle changes that mirror the evolving storylines—perhaps a new piece of equipment in the motor pool, or a change in the way the intelligence office is organized. These small details add depth and believability, drawing viewers further into the world of Chicago PD.

Behind the glossy surface of television, the transformation of actors into authentic Chicago cops depends on a meticulous wardrobe and makeup process grounded in realism. Wardrobe choices are shaped by the realities of policing: utility, muted palettes, and weathered fabrics dominate, offering no room for glamorous flourishes. Costume designers work tirelessly to ensure that each outfit—whether it’s a worn leather jacket, a standard-issue button-down, or a battered pair of boots—mirrors the practical needs and rank of the character, while keeping continuity flawless across episodes and scenes. The makeup team, led by artists who value authenticity over artifice, crafts looks marked by subtle sweat, late-night fatigue, and the everyday weariness of the job. For Benjamin Levy Aguilar, embodying Detective Torres is a test of patience and precision; it can take up to two hours to painstakingly apply his character’s tattoos before a single scene is shot, a ritual that underscores the physicality and history of his role. As a whole, the team’s dedication to verisimilitude means that every scrape, shadow, and uniform feels earned, pushing the show’s visual world closer to the hard-edged reality faced by real-life Chicago officers.

The Cast: Old Friends, New Challenges

One of the greatest joys for fans is seeing familiar faces return year after year. In Season 13, Jason Beghe will once again command the screen as Sgt. Hank Voight, a role he has inhabited with unwavering intensity and nuance. His multi-year deal confirms his centrality to the series, and rumors abound regarding new complexities in Voight’s leadership and personal life.

Especially with the epic ending of Chicago PD episode 12, two quotes still echo around the many fan sites—haunting the hearts of viewers and stirring theories with every rewatch: “You are worse than me,” and “I don’t get more.” These words, razor-sharp and heavy with meaning, have become lighthouses in the storm of speculation, casting long shadows over the future of Hank Voight.

Fans find themselves returning to these lines, dissecting their weight and wondering what they reveal not just about Voight’s past, but the road that lies ahead. “You are worse than me” is more than an accusation—it’s a challenge, a mirror held up to Voight’s relentless pursuit of justice, no matter the cost. It reminds us that the measure of darkness in a man isn’t always clear, and that the line between savior and sinner grows thinner with every hard choice.

And then there is the resignation in “I don’t get more.” Is it surrender or self-awareness? Fans debate whether it signals Voight’s acceptance of his own limits, or a warning that he’s on the brink of change. It’s this ambiguity that will shape the fabric of season 13, tugging Voight between redemption and ruin.

As the new season dawns, these quotes aren’t just echoes—they are ghosts that will walk beside Voight through every corridor of District 21. Will he heed the warning in those words, or will he transcend them in unexpected ways? The fandom holds its breath, knowing that for Voight, every whispered accusation and every quiet confession becomes another turning point. With each decision, he is haunted by the possibility that his legacy might be written not in absolution, but in the shadows he leaves behind.

Season 13 promises to turn these phrases into guiding riddles—shaping storylines, testing alliances, and forcing Voight to confront the one adversary he has never truly conquered: himself. The mystery lingers, and fans wouldn’t have it any other way.

An Ensemble on the Brink of Change

Alongside Beghe in anchoring the series, the familiar core ensemble returns: Marina Squerciati (Kim Burgess), Patrick John Flueger (Adam Ruzek), LaRoyce Hawkins (Kevin Atwater), Each of these actors has spent more than a decade inhabiting their characters, allowing for performances that feel authentic, layered, and emotionally resonant.

Benjamin Levy Aguilar (Dante Torres) will also be returning. Torres, who quickly became a fan favorite for his sharp instincts and streetwise demeanor, continues to evolve as a vital presence in the team.

Season 13 also brings a bold new addition—a “loose cannon” recruit whose unpredictable style promises to shake up District 21. While full details remain under wraps, early reports suggest this character’s impulsive approach and a knack for bending the rules will test the patience of superiors and the loyalty of the squad. The arrival of this wildcard injects new energy into the familiar dynamics and sets the stage for fresh conflicts and alliances.

Yet, change is on the horizon beyond new faces. Cost-cutting measures may see some veteran actors appear in fewer episodes, and the uncertainty surrounding possible departures has added a sense of urgency and speculation among long-time viewers. Who will stay? Who might exit? And how will this injection of volatility—both on and off screen—reshape the emotional chemistry of District 21?

The Ties That Bind: Cast Chemistry

Off screen, the cast’s camaraderie is legendary. Behind-the-scenes stories tell of shared pranks, late-night script readings, and heartfelt support during tough storylines. This real-life bond translates to the screen, imbuing each episode with a palpable sense of trust and shared purpose.

New Faces on the Horizon?

With the possibility of departures, the door is open for new talent to join the cast. While no official announcements have been made, casting directors are rumored to be searching for actors who can bring fresh energy and perspective to the series’ complex world. Fans are already speculating about potential new recruits—rookie officers, ambitious detectives, or perhaps even a new antagonist who will test District 21 in unprecedented ways.

The Art of Becoming: Actor Preparation

Long before the first scene is shot, the cast immerses themselves in the world of law enforcement. Approved scripts are distributed, and actors begin the rigorous process of line memorization, character study, and scene blocking. For the uninitiated, it’s easy to assume the work is all about memorizing lines, but the preparation is far deeper.

Research and Realism

Many actors take their commitment to realism seriously. They consult with retired police officers, firearms instructors, and tactical experts to ensure every movement—every pursuit, arrest, and interrogation—feels authentic. Some participate in ride-alongs with real officers, observing the day-to-day reality of police work, from paperwork to high-speed chases.

Actors like Marina Squerciati have spoken about the transformative impact of these experiences, recounting the adrenaline rush of ride-alongs and the sobering moments of seeing justice play out in real time. These insights find their way into performances, grounding the drama in the grit and unpredictability of real policing.

Physical and Emotional Demands

Portraying a police officer requires not just mental preparation, but physical stamina. The cast maintains rigorous fitness routines, ensuring they can handle the demands of action scenes—chases, fights, and even the strain of wearing heavy gear for hours at a time.

But the emotional preparation can be even more taxing. Actors explore their characters’ backstories, motivations, and traumas, drawing on twelve seasons of history to deepen their portrayals. For some, this means tapping into personal memories or seeking guidance from therapists or coaches. The goal is to bring authenticity and empathy to each performance, reminding viewers that behind every badge is a human being facing incredible pressure.

Building the Character—Season After Season

Over the years, cast members have developed intricate internal timelines for their characters, tracking relationships, career milestones, and personal growth. This attention to detail ensures continuity and rewards long-time viewers with subtle callbacks and emotional payoffs.

Orchestrating the Chaos: Production Team in Action

While the cast and writers may take center stage, the unsung heroes of Chicago PD are the hundreds of crew members who make each episode possible. Key crew members, including assistant directors, script supervisors, camera operators, sound mixers, and more, are carefully recruited during pre-production.

Departmental Briefings and Teamwork

Once assembled, each department receives detailed briefings on their responsibilities and the season’s schedule. The first assistant director is tasked with building a comprehensive shooting schedule, collaborating with the director and line producer to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.

Scheduling and Logistics: The Backbone of Production

The logistics of filming in a city as dynamic as Chicago are formidable. Shooting schedules must account for weather, daylight, actor availability, and the unpredictable nature of urban life. The crew must be prepared to pivot at a moment’s notice—be it due to a sudden downpour, a city event, or a last-minute script change.

Equipment and Set Readiness

Ensuring all necessary equipment—cameras, lighting, sound gear, and props—are in place is a feat of orchestration. The transportation team organizes routes for cast and crew, while catering ensures everyone remains fueled through the long, grueling days.

Wardrobe and makeup teams work closely with actors to perfect their looks, from the iconic uniforms to the subtle personal touches that make each character unique. Costume fittings and makeup tests are not just about appearance—they’re moments when actors fully assume their on-screen identities.

Safety and Wellbeing on and off the Set

In recent years, the industry’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its cast, crew, and audience has reached new heights. Beyond comprehensive health and safety protocols—including on-set medical staff and rigorous COVID-19 measures—Wolf Securities plays a pivotal role in ensuring security both on and off the set. Recognizing the challenges posed by what experts identify as Celebrity Worship Syndrome or Celebrity Obsession Disorder, Wolf Securities employs specialized teams, who many are retired law enforcement officers, to shield actors from the complex realities of intense public adulation and unwanted attention.

Equally concerning is the rise of sophisticated scams targeting the show’s passionate fan base—fraudulent impersonations, fake meet-and-greet offers, and deceptive merchandise schemes have all become more prevalent. Wolf Productions treats these threats with utmost seriousness. Through vigilant monitoring of social media, direct communication with fans, and legal action when necessary, the company works tirelessly to protect its community from exploitation.

This multi-layered approach ensures that the magic of storytelling is never overshadowed by real-world risks. Both cast and audience can remain fully engaged in the experience, secure in the knowledge that Wolf Productions is dedicated to fostering a safe, respectful, and authentic environment—one where creativity thrives and everyone, from star to supporter, is protected.

Excitement Builds as Filming Date for Chicago PD Draws Near

Every new season of Chicago PD brings a promise: familiar faces, gripping stories, and the chance to see the city’s beating heart through a different lens. Season 13 is shaping up to be no exception—but the stakes feel higher than ever.

Layered Storytelling and High-Stakes Action

The writers are reportedly pushing boundaries this year, exploring the ripple effects of choices made in past seasons. Expect storylines that weave together personal struggles—addiction, ambition, relationships, and regret—with explosive criminal cases ripped from the headlines.

Insiders hint at a season-long arc that will test Voight’s leadership as never before, with the unit facing threats both from within and outside their ranks. Fans can anticipate emotional reckonings, unexpected alliances, and perhaps even the return of characters thought lost to the city’s underworld.

Social Issues at the Forefront

As always, Chicago PD remains unafraid to tackle contemporary social issues. This season, storylines are expected to address community-police relations, mental health, and the ever-evolving challenges facing modern law enforcement. The show’s willingness to confront these issues head-on has won it both acclaim and controversy—a balancing act that keeps viewers engaged and talking long after the credits roll.

The Power of Fandom

Few shows boast a following as passionate as Chicago PD. Online forums, fanfiction communities, and social media groups buzz with speculation, theory-crafting, and shared excitement. Central to this vibrant world is Brian Luce, a true Renaissance figure behind the scenes. Over the years, Brian has worn nearly every hat imaginable for the show: producer, consulting producer, associate producer, police consultant, tech consultant, police technical advisor, and even writer and actor. His expertise is grounded in real-world experience—he served 27 years on the Chicago Police Department, lending unparalleled authenticity to the stories and procedures depicted on screen.

Brian penned the powerful episode "A Better Place," drawing on his deep well of experience and insight into the world of law enforcement. He also made an on-screen appearance as a tact officer in the memorable episode "A Shot Heard Around the World." His multifaceted involvement ensures that Chicago PD remains not only entertaining, but also true to the spirit and complexity of its setting. For fans seeking a window into both the making of the series and the real life it mirrors, Brian Luce’s Instagram, brianluce000 (https://www.instagram.com/brianluce000/), is a must-visit—offering behind-the-scenes glimpses, teasers, and personal reflections from a man who has helped shape every facet of the show.

The show’s creators have acknowledged this devotion, occasionally dropping Easter eggs and nods to fan-favorite moments. Season 13 will no doubt inspire a new wave of fan engagement. From live-tweeting during episodes to real-life meetups and charity events, the community around the show continues to grow and evolve. For new viewers, the sense of belonging and shared anticipation can be infectious—a perfect reason to tune in and join the conversation.

The Impact of Chicago PD: More Than Just Entertainment

Chicago PD has never shied away from holding a mirror to society. Its stories of justice, redemption, and personal sacrifice resonate far beyond the confines of the small screen.

Inspiring Future Generations

The series has inspired many to pursue careers in law enforcement, social work, and public service. Retired officers and first responders have praised the show’s nuanced portrayal of the challenges and triumphs that come with serving a community.

Community Outreach and Charity

The cast and crew have also become known for their philanthropic work in Chicago, supporting local organizations and participating in charity drives. These real-world connections reinforce the show’s commitment to the city that inspires it.

Award-Winning Legacy: Chicago PD’s Triumphs

As Chicago PD heads into its thirteenth season, its trophy case is bursting with honors that spotlight the series’ exceptional writing, captivating performances, and lasting cultural impact! Over its impressive run, the series has captured the hearts of critics and fans alike, racking up a dazzling array of awards and nominations that underscore its status as a true television powerhouse.

• Imagen Foundation Awards:

• Winner: Best Actor - Television (Jon Seda, 2019)

• Winner: Best Supporting Actor - Drama (Television) (Benjamin Levy Aguilar, 2023)

• Nominee: Best Supporting Actor - Drama (Television) (Benjamin Levy Aguilar, 2024)

• Nominee: Best Supporting Actress - Television (Lisseth Chavez, 2020)

• Nominee: Best Drama Series (2024)

BMI Film & TV Awards:

Winner: BMI Film, TV & Visual Media Award – Best Network Television (Atli Örvarsson, 2021)

Winner: Network Television Award (Atli Örvarsson, 2020)

NAMIC Vision Awards:

Nominee: Best Performance - Drama (LaRoyce Hawkins, 2019, 2020, 2021)

NAACP Image Awards:

Nominee: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (LaRoyce Hawkins, 2024)

Multiple nominations for Outstanding Drama Series and key cast members

Humanitas Prize:

Nominee: Drama Teleplay for the episode "Burnside" (Ike Smith, 2022)

Image Awards (NAACP): The series has been recognized for its compelling storytelling and powerful performances, with LaRoyce Hawkins’ emotionally resonant work standing out.

Prism Awards: Chicago PD has been honored for its authentic treatment of substance abuse, addiction, and mental health, reflecting the show’s commitment to real issues.

ASCAP Film and Television Music Awards: With its unforgettable score and theme, composed by Atli Örvarsson, the show’s music has achieved industry acclaim, earning multiple accolades for enhancing the series’ dramatic pulse.

People’s Choice Awards: Multiple nominations for Favorite TV Crime Drama, with the show’s stars—Jason Beghe and Sophia Bush—earning nods for their standout roles.

ALMA Awards: Nominations for positive Latinx representation and storylines, showcasing the show’s dedication to diversity.

Technical Excellence: Chicago PD has also scored wins and nominations for editing, sound design, and stunts at the Leo Awards and the Motion Picture Sound Editors' Golden Reel Awards.

But it’s not just about the trophies—Chicago PD’s success is built on critical acclaim for its gripping, realistic portrayal of policing in the heart of Chicago. Reviewers from The Hollywood Reporter to Variety have praised the show’s commitment to character-driven storytelling and social relevance, consistently placing it among the best crime dramas on television.

Fans and the industry alike have lauded the dynamic performances of the cast, with Jason Beghe (Sgt. Hank Voight), Tracy Spiridakos (Det. Hailey Upton), and LaRoyce Hawkins (Ofc. Kevin Atwater) frequently singled out as powerhouses in the ensemble. The show’s writers room, led by Dick Wolf and Gwen Sigan, is celebrated for deftly weaving together high-stakes plotlines with nuanced social themes.

While some sources have debated the complete accuracy of its depiction of policing, Chicago PD’s influence and acclaim are undeniable. Its honors, both official and in the hearts of its passionate fans, mark it as a standout series that continues to elevate the standard for dramatic television, season after season!

As Season 13 dawns, Chicago PD carries the legacy of these accolades forward, raising expectations for even greater storytelling and industry recognition in the years to come.

Spin-Offs and the Chicago Franchise

Chicago PD is part of a larger universe that includes Chicago Fire and Chicago Med. Crossovers between the shows are fan-favorite events, bringing together beloved characters for storylines that span the city’s emergency services.

This season, rumors are swirling about possible crossover episodes and new characters who might move between shows. These connections deepen the world of Chicago PD and offer endless creative possibilities.

But let’s not forget—Chicago PD itself was born out of the ashes of its sister show, Chicago Fire. The origins of District 21’s tale can be traced back to a single, unforgettable character introduction: Jason Beghe’s first appearance as the hard-edged Sgt. Hank Voight on Chicago Fire. When Beghe’s Voight stormed onto the screen, his presence was instantly magnetic, equal parts menacing and compelling—a man whose moral compass was as gritty and unpredictable as the city he swore to protect.

Initially, Voight was introduced as an antagonist, a police sergeant whose methods and motives sent shockwaves across the firehouse. Fans watched, riveted, as his complex relationship with the law blurred the lines between hero and villain. It was Beghe’s nuanced performance—raw, commanding, and fiercely authentic—that captured the imagination of viewers and producers alike. This wasn’t just a guest role; it was the spark that ignited an entirely new universe of storytelling within the Chicago franchise.

From those pivotal early episodes, the idea for Chicago PD began to take shape, with Beghe’s Voight at its epicenter. His transformation from a controversial figure on Chicago Fire to the resolute, battle-scarred leader of Intelligence in Chicago PD showcased the remarkable depth and range of Beghe’s talent. A veteran actor with decades of experience, Beghe imbued Voight with layers of vulnerability, steely resolve, and moral confliction, making him both the heart and anchor of the show.

It’s no exaggeration to say that through Jason Beghe’s powerhouse performance, an amazing show was forged—one that would go on to define the modern police drama. His presence is the cornerstone of Chicago PD, setting a standard for intensity, complexity, and authenticity that elevates every scene he’s in. It is through Voight—flawed, fearless, and fiercely loyal—that Chicago PD found its voice, transforming from a concept into one of television’s most compelling series.

The Legacy Continues

For thirteen remarkable seasons, Chicago PD has chronicled the triumphs and tragedies of District 21, weaving a legacy of compelling stories and unforgettable characters that have left a lasting mark on television. As the new season approaches, anticipation is high to see how the series will build upon this rich foundation—honoring its storied past while forging boldly into uncharted territory. With each new episode, the show continues to evolve, promising fresh challenges, deeper character arcs, and even more powerful storytelling that keeps audiences coming back season after season.

Why Season 13 Is the One to Watch

As July 24th approaches, the stage is set for a season that offers more than just high-stakes storytelling. With meticulous planning, a cast and crew at the top of their game, and the ever-present heartbeat of Chicago serving as both muse and stage, viewers—old and new—are in for a ride.

Will the team overcome their personal and professional trials? Who will step up when the city needs them most? And how will the winds change alter the course of District 21? Chicago PD Season 13 isn’t just another chapter—it’s a bold new era. So, mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to dive deep into the heart of the city like never before. The countdown has begun, and the badge awaits.

Join the Action

For newcomers, there’s never been a better time to join the ranks of Chicago PD fans. With a rich back-catalogue available to stream and a new season poised to push boundaries, the world of District 21 is as accessible and thrilling as ever. Tune in this fall and discover why Chicago’s finest continues to capture hearts—and headlines—around the world.

Final Thoughts

As the lights go up and the cameras roll, one thing is certain: Season 13 of Chicago PD will be a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, community, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a first-time viewer, prepare to be swept up in the drama, the action, and the emotion of television’s most compelling police drama.

The badge is back. The city is waiting. And this season, everything changes.