The idea that Trudy might step away from the force has been floating around since the finale aired.
Fans have speculated whether a traumatic loss might lead her to retire early — or at least re-evaluate her role at District 21. Morton didn’t confirm or deny this possibility, but she did offer a telling comment: “Everyone has their breaking point. Trudy’s always been the one holding the fort, the voice of reason. But even she can only take so much.”
Fans and critics alike have praised the One Chicago shows for portraying grief and trauma in raw and relatable ways. From the loss of Alvin Olinsky to the emotional fallout of Lindsay’s exit, the franchise doesn’t shy away from showing how tragedy reshapes people. Morton’s performance has always stood out for its subtle emotional depth, even when Trudy is dishing out tough love or dry wit. In fact, her limited screen time often packs more punch than full-episode arcs. Giving her a season-long exploration of loss could be the most powerful storyline she’s had in years — and one long overdue.
Christian Stolte, who plays Mouch, has been just as cagey about his character’s fate. “I can’t say much,” he joked in a recent panel, “but let’s just say it’s going to be emotional no matter what happens.” Meanwhile, Chicago P.D. showrunner Gwen Sigan has confirmed that the crossover emotional thread will carry into P.D. Season 13. “The ripple effects are huge,” she said. “This isn’t a one-episode moment. It’s a season arc.” Even Jason Beghe, who plays Hank Voight, commented on how Trudy’s story could impact the entire team: “If something happens to Mouch, we’re all going to feel it. And if Trudy starts to crumble, that changes the whole dynamic.
While full plot details remain under wraps, early leaks and cast interviews suggest the new season will open with Trudy at a crossroads. Whether Mouch survives or not, the emotional weight she carries will bleed into her work. It could cause tension with Voight, shifts in how she manages the team, or even surprising alliances with other grieving characters. One particularly juicy rumor suggests Trudy could get a partner storyline — not romantic, but someone assigned to help her manage her increased responsibilities at the district. Could that be the franchise’s way of giving her support — or nudging her toward a longer goodbye?
No matter what happens, the love story of Trudy and Mouch has already secured its place in One Chicago history. Their bond defied genre expectations and gave fans a relatable, realistic relationship grounded in mutual respect, humor, and quiet strength. If this is the end of that story, fans are hoping it’s handled with care — and Morton seems to agree. “We owe it to the fans to do this right,” she said. “Mouch and Trudy have always been real. Not flashy, not dramatic — just real. That’s what made them special. And whatever happens next, that’s how I want it to feel.”
