DEAR CHICAGO PD WRITERS… (plz read as I know many people are thinking the same thing)
PLEASE move away from character-centric episodes. It’s completely fine to have one character lead an episode, but the rest of the cast should still feel equally involved. One of the biggest strengths of earlier seasons (S1–5) was how interconnected everyone felt. The episodes felt like an ensemble. I GET IT budget blah blah but holy shit FIND A WAY TO KEEP YOUR AUDIENCE ENTERTAINED AND HOOKED YK???
Look at MED (at least from the episodes I’ve watched- sorry I haven’t watched it all lol so just correct me) they consistently balance multiple storylines so every character still feels present and relevant in each episode. We also need more scenes from the characters’ personal lives. There’s been 13 seasons and i still feel like idk what each of the OG characters love/like/are interested in. If viewers can’t connect with the characters outside of work, it becomes harder to stay invested.
And please bring back more character interactions and relationships (mainly platonic). The friendships, banter, mentorships, and team dynamics used to make the show feel alive (similar to the vibes of the Rookie but it can be more serious since it is CPD). Maybe add back in the “end of the episode” bar scenes/ the team hanging out somewhere IDK JUST. DO. SOMETHING. Every episode should feel like the WHOLE cast matters. And if someone has to be missing because of budget or scheduling, at least continue or explain their storyline in the next episode. WE NEED CONTINUITY (especially with the whole Atwater/Ruzek storylines!!!).
I also just want to say. I did enjoy every episode this season (I would not rate one episode less than an 8/10 imo). I like the new character Imani and found her storyline interesting fs. What pissed me off was the lack of continuity, the lack of the COMPLETE TEAM, HELL even the lack of the crazy (s1-5) version of Hank Voight that we got a glimpse of in the finale. I DO NOT LIKE THE CENTRICS. Ok that’s it I need to stop or else I’ll keep going.
Also if yall wanna add anything or correct me plz do! Hopefully the writers see this 😣