After sidelining the character for a while now, Chicago PD's 200th episode hints at finally fixing its big Trudy Platt mistake. Hank Voight runs a small group of highly-skilled detectives and officers known as the specialized Intelligence Unit. Each member is carefully handpicked, ensuring that everyone fits into their roles. This is primarily the reason why not only is Intelligence so effective but also why it's so solid as a unit. Aside from Voight and his subordinates, Intelligence has an honorary member in Platt, who Chicago PD has been underutilizing for a while now.
21st District's Desk Sergeant is among the original characters in the One Chicago police procedural. Even as it has gone through countless exits over the years, including Jay Halstead's latest Chicago PD departure, Platt maintains her place as an important character in the show. Equal parts strict and caring, she mentored some of Intelligence's members such as Kim Burgess and Kevin Atwater. But, sadly, it seems like NBC has forgotten how great she is — something that Chicago PD's 200th episode could rectify.
Trudy Platt Is Seen Investigating With The Team In Chicago PD Promo Photos
Ahead of its monumental offering, NBC has released marketing images for Chicago PD's 200th episode. Set to premiere on Wednesday, February 22, the outing titled "Trapped" will see Burgess and Adam Ruzek take on a case that will force her to finally deal will the trauma from her near-death experience in the season 8 finale. Aside from the main story, however, Chicago PD's 200th episode promo images also prominently feature Platt investigating with Intelligence. This hints that the show will finally utilize her properly after sidelining her for a while.
Considering everything that has happened in Chicago PD, it's easy to forget how powerful Platt actually is. First, she has an excellent command of the uniformed officers in the 21st District which means that Intelligence can depend on her if they need more manpower to deal with a case. Secondly, she's also one of the most seasoned and respected members of the Chicago Police Department. While she isn't exactly high ranking, her name carries weight in important circles, just like Voight's. Thirdly, she also has ties to Firehouse 51, being the wife of Munch, meaning she can easily ask Chief Boden for help if she needs it.
Chicago PD Needs To Give Trudy Platt More Of A Central Role Again
Chicago PD has explored Voight's rule-breaking tendencies in the name of justice. As the show moves forward, it's time that the police procedural also gives Platt a similar treatment. Perhaps NBC can re-incorporate stories involving uniformed officers again — an aspect that has been phased out in later seasons. Otherwise, Intelligence could get Platt more involved in their investigations. Considering her connections in the city, she could be a big help, especially if the team handles extra-sensitive cases. Whatever it is, just make sure that they don't relegate her again to a side character who only appears to inform Voight and his unit that someone is coming up their bullpen.
Chicago PD season 10 airs Wednesdays on NBC.