The heart-wrenching season 6 premiere of Chicago PD saw the death of Sergeant Denny Woods, a character whose complex relationship with Hank Voight defined much of season 5. His demise marked a significant turning point for Voight and the Intelligence Unit, forever altering the dynamics within the squad and setting the stage for a season of intense internal and external conflict.
The Demise of Sergeant Denny Woods: A Deep Dive
Denny Woods’ death wasn’t merely a plot device; it was the culmination of a long and brutal feud with Hank Voight. Their past friendship, tainted by professional jealousy and conflicting ethical stances, had devolved into a relentless battle of wills, ultimately resulting in Woods’ tragic end. Understanding the context surrounding his death requires examining the events that led up to it.
The Backstory: Voight vs. Woods
The tension between Voight and Woods had been simmering for years, fueled by Woods’ perception that Voight had sabotaged his career. This resentment festered, transforming into a vendetta that manifested throughout season 5. Woods relentlessly pursued Voight, attempting to uncover evidence of his corrupt activities and bring him to justice. This investigation put immense pressure on the Intelligence Unit and forced Voight to make increasingly difficult choices to protect his team.
The Events Leading to Woods’ Death
In the season 5 finale, Voight appeared to confess to the murder of Kevin Bingham to protect his surrogate son, Antonio Dawson. Woods seized this opportunity, arresting Voight and seemingly achieving his ultimate goal. However, the season 6 premiere revealed a crucial twist: Voight wasn’t actually responsible for Bingham’s death. He was covering for someone else.
During a frantic investigation, Woods confronts Voight while attempting to get the “real” killer, Ray Price, the Alderman, to confess. In the ensuing confrontation, Woods is shot and killed. The shooter is Price, who is desperate to protect his own interests. Voight, despite his complicated history with Woods, tries to save him, but it’s too late.
The Immediate Aftermath
Woods’ death had a profound impact on Voight. While the two men were enemies, Voight still harbored a sense of responsibility for the situation. The investigation into Woods’ murder put the Intelligence Unit under intense scrutiny, with internal affairs questioning every move they made. This heightened pressure forced Voight and his team to operate with extreme caution, navigating a minefield of suspicion and uncertainty. The relationship with Ray Price becomes even more volatile, as the investigation unravels and Voight comes closer to the truth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Denny Woods’ Death
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding Denny Woods’ death in the Chicago PD season 6 premiere:
FAQ 1: Who actually shot Denny Woods?
Alderman Ray Price ultimately shot and killed Denny Woods. Price was attempting to protect himself and his political career.
FAQ 2: Was Hank Voight involved in Denny Woods’ death?
While Hank Voight was present when Denny Woods was shot, he was not the shooter. He even attempted to save Woods’ life.
FAQ 3: Why did Ray Price kill Denny Woods?
Ray Price killed Denny Woods to prevent him from exposing Price’s involvement in criminal activities and protecting himself from potential legal consequences related to the cover-up involving Kevin Bingham’s murder.
FAQ 4: How did Denny Woods’ death affect Hank Voight?
Denny Woods’ death deeply affected Hank Voight, leaving him with a sense of responsibility and guilt. It also placed him and the Intelligence Unit under intense scrutiny, forcing them to navigate a complex and dangerous investigation. Voight is portrayed as conflicted on whether he should have attempted to cover for Price and the others involved.
FAQ 5: What was the primary motivation for Woods’ vendetta against Voight?
Woods’ primary motivation was a belief that Voight had sabotaged his career, preventing him from achieving his full potential within the police force. This perceived injustice fueled his relentless pursuit of Voight.
FAQ 6: How did the rest of the Intelligence Unit react to Woods’ death?
The Intelligence Unit was initially shocked and wary, knowing that Woods’ death would bring unwanted attention and scrutiny. They rallied around Voight, but there was also a sense of unease and uncertainty about the future. The team is questioned by internal affairs.
FAQ 7: Did Denny Woods have any allies within the Chicago PD?
Yes, while not explicitly shown as allies, Woods had professional relationships and contacts within the Chicago PD, including internal affairs, who aided him in his investigation of Voight. This access provided him with leverage and information.
FAQ 8: What legal ramifications did Ray Price face after shooting Denny Woods?
Ray Price eventually faced legal ramifications for shooting Denny Woods. Evidence uncovered by the Intelligence Unit linked him to the crime, leading to his arrest and prosecution. The details of his trial and sentencing are explored throughout the season.
FAQ 9: How did Denny Woods’ death change the dynamics of the Intelligence Unit?
Woods’ death intensified the pressure on the Intelligence Unit to maintain a clean record. It also forced them to confront the consequences of their actions and the potential for corruption within the department. The team becomes more cautious and more loyal to each other.
FAQ 10: Was Denny Woods a completely corrupt character, or did he have any redeeming qualities?
Denny Woods was a complex character with both flaws and redeeming qualities. While his vendetta against Voight often led him to questionable tactics, he genuinely believed he was upholding the law and fighting corruption. He saw Voight as a rogue element that needed to be stopped. He could be considered a “by any means necessary” kind of officer.
FAQ 11: What was the long-term impact of Denny Woods’ death on the series?
Denny Woods’ death had a lasting impact on the series, shaping the narrative and character development for subsequent seasons. It forced Voight to confront his past and grapple with the consequences of his choices, while also highlighting the moral ambiguities within the world of law enforcement. The event forever changed Voight’s character.
FAQ 12: Where can I re-watch the Chicago PD Season 6 premiere?
The Chicago PD Season 6 premiere, along with other episodes, is typically available for streaming on platforms such as Peacock, Hulu (depending on subscription), and through purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Check your local listings for broadcast reruns.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for Chicago PD
The death of Sergeant Denny Woods in the season 6 premiere of Chicago PD was a pivotal moment in the series. It was not just a shocking plot twist, but a carefully crafted narrative event that significantly altered the course of the show. The reverberations of his demise rippled through the Intelligence Unit, forcing them to confront their own demons and navigate a world of ever-shifting allegiances and moral compromises. Ultimately, Woods’ death served as a catalyst for change, pushing the characters to evolve and the series to explore even darker and more complex themes.