While Kim Burgess and Adam Ruzek haven’t officially exchanged vows in a traditional wedding ceremony on Chicago P.D., the closest viewers have gotten to seeing them married is in the poignant Season 8 finale, Episode 16, “The Other Side.” This episode features a spur-of-the-moment, unofficial wedding ceremony orchestrated by Sergeant Hank Voight during a tense and emotional situation involving their adopted daughter, Makayla.
A Wedding Under Pressure: The Context of Their “Ceremony”
The circumstances surrounding Burgess and Ruzek’s “wedding” in “The Other Side” are far from traditional. Makayla is kidnapped, and the entire Intelligence Unit is working tirelessly to find her. Faced with the overwhelming fear of losing Makayla and the uncertain future, Burgess and Ruzek decide to make a deeply personal commitment to each other.
Voight, witnessing their raw emotion and unwavering love, stages a makeshift wedding at District 21. He recognizes their need for a tangible symbol of their commitment during this crisis. He understands that while a formal ceremony might be postponed, their feelings are real and deserving of recognition.
The Improvised Vows and the Weight of Emotion
The scene is intensely moving. There are no elaborate decorations, no wedding guests in formal attire, just Burgess and Ruzek, their faces etched with worry and love, promising to be there for each other, for Makayla, no matter what. The lack of legal formality underscores the depth of their emotional bond. They are choosing each other in the face of immense adversity.
While the ceremony isn’t legally binding, its significance is undeniable. It serves as a powerful declaration of their commitment and provides a much-needed moment of hope amidst the darkness.
Why No “Real” Wedding Yet? The Complicated Burzek Timeline
The on-again, off-again relationship between Burgess and Ruzek, affectionately dubbed “Burzek” by fans, has been a central and often turbulent storyline throughout Chicago P.D. Their connection is undeniable, but their path to a stable, committed relationship has been riddled with obstacles.
Past Relationships and Lingering Doubts
Both Burgess and Ruzek have struggled with commitment in the past. Their previous relationships, both with each other and with other characters, have left them with lingering doubts and insecurities. This history contributes to the reluctance to take the final step of marriage, even though their love for each other is apparent.
The Balancing Act of Love and Law Enforcement
Another significant factor is the inherent stress and danger that comes with their jobs as police officers. The constant exposure to violence and trauma can take a toll on any relationship, especially one as intense as Burzek’s. They are constantly navigating the demands of their profession with the desire for a stable personal life.
Co-Parenting Makayla: A New Dynamic
The introduction of Makayla into their lives has significantly altered their relationship dynamic. Becoming co-parents has forced them to confront their individual issues and work together as a team. While this shared responsibility has brought them closer, it has also added a new layer of complexity to their relationship, potentially delaying a formal wedding.
FAQs: Unraveling the Burzek Enigma
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the intricacies of Burgess and Ruzek’s relationship and their “almost” wedding.
FAQ 1: Was the “wedding” in “The Other Side” legally binding?
No, the ceremony officiated by Voight was not legally binding. There was no marriage license obtained, and the vows were informal and spontaneous. It was a symbolic gesture of commitment, not a legal marriage.
FAQ 2: Why didn’t Burgess and Ruzek get a marriage license after the ceremony?
The kidnapping of Makayla and the subsequent investigation took precedence. Their focus was entirely on finding her and ensuring her safety. Legal formalities were understandably put on hold.
FAQ 3: Have Burgess and Ruzek ever discussed getting married officially?
Yes, they have had conversations about marriage, but they have always stopped short of making concrete plans. Their individual insecurities and the constant pressures of their jobs have always seemed to get in the way.
FAQ 4: Will Burgess and Ruzek ever get married on Chicago P.D.?
This remains a significant question for fans. While there’s no guarantee, the writers have consistently teased the possibility of a formal wedding. The future of Burzek is constantly evolving, making it difficult to predict definitively.
FAQ 5: How does Makayla influence Burgess and Ruzek’s relationship?
Makayla is a central figure in their lives and a driving force behind their commitment to each other. She has brought them closer and forced them to confront their individual issues. She has also created a family dynamic that complicates the prospect of marriage but also strengthens their bond.
FAQ 6: What are the main obstacles preventing Burgess and Ruzek from getting married?
Their past relationship issues, the stress and danger of their jobs as police officers, and the responsibilities of co-parenting Makayla all contribute to their hesitation to get married. They’re also working on individual growth.
FAQ 7: How do fans react to the on-again, off-again nature of Burzek’s relationship?
Fans are passionate about Burzek and often express frustration with the constant ups and downs of their relationship. Many are eager to see them finally settle down and commit to each other permanently.
FAQ 8: What are some of the most memorable moments in Burgess and Ruzek’s relationship?
Significant moments include their initial romance, their engagement, the miscarriage of their first child, their time apart, and their reunion and subsequent adoption of Makayla. Each of these moments has shaped their relationship and made them the couple they are today.
FAQ 9: How has co-parenting Makayla changed Burgess and Ruzek individually?
Co-parenting has forced them to become more responsible, patient, and communicative. They have learned to prioritize Makayla’s needs above their own and to work together as a team.
FAQ 10: What does Sergeant Voight’s involvement in their “wedding” say about his character?
Voight’s decision to stage the impromptu wedding reveals a more paternal and compassionate side to his character. It shows that he cares deeply about his team and understands the importance of emotional support, especially during times of crisis.
FAQ 11: Are there any other couples on Chicago P.D. who have faced similar relationship challenges?
Yes, other couples on the show have experienced their share of difficulties, but Burzek’s relationship stands out due to its complexity and the emotional investment from fans.
FAQ 12: What can viewers expect from Burgess and Ruzek in future seasons of Chicago P.D.?
Viewers can expect continued exploration of their relationship dynamic, the challenges of co-parenting, and the impact of their jobs on their personal lives. Whether or not they will eventually get married remains to be seen, but their story is far from over. The writers continue to develop their characters and explore their evolving bond, promising more drama and potentially, a future filled with more than just almost-weddings.