Overview
- The shocking death of Nadia Decotis at the hands of Dr. Yates in Chicago P.D. season 2, episode 20 deeply affected the show’s audience.
- Nadia’s demise resonated emotionally with Erin Lindsay, influencing the narrative direction of the series.
- This pivotal moment occurred during a gripping crossover event with Law & Order: SVU, intensifying the overarching storyline.
In the realm of captivating television dramas, well-fleshed characters often harbor deep secrets and intriguing backstories. Characters may emerge briefly, like Talia Bishop from The Rookie, or remain long-term fixtures, like memorable players from Law & Order. One standout character from Chicago P.D., portrayed by Stella Maeve, is Nadia Decotis, whose profound connection with Erin Lindsay—played by Sophia Bush—leaves a lasting impression on both characters and viewers alike.
What Happened to Nadia on Chicago P.D.?
In a harrowing turn of events, Dr. Gregory Yates (played by Dallas Roberts) kills Nadia Decotis in Chicago P.D. season 2, episode 20, titled “Number of Rats.”This tragic event has remained etched in the memories of avid fans. The chilling sequence begins with Yates being cornered after being seen fleeing the scene of a deadly crime, where he casually acknowledges Nadia, indicating his sinister intentions.
Following a conversation at a park, Yates abducts Nadia, compelling her into his vehicle and driving to New York City. The assault culminates in her murder and burial—a heart-wrenching moment that exemplifies the series’ capacity for realism akin to true crime documentaries. This devastating loss carries additional weight due to the emotional bond between Nadia and Lindsay. At the time of her death, Nadia was on a path to recovery from addiction, working in the Intelligence Unit, and aspiring to join the ranks of law enforcement. Lindsay’s grief over the loss of Nadia is particularly poignant, stemming from her desire to aid her friend during such a challenging period.
The Crossover with Law & Order: SVU
Nadia’s tragic end coincides with an intense crossover event between Chicago P.D. and Law & Order: SVU, presented in season 2, episode 20 of Chicago P.D. and season 16, episode 20 of Law & Order: SVU. This episode, renowned for its swift pacing and dark themes, showcases collaborative efforts among characters such as Antonio Dawson (played by Jon Seda), Jay Halstead (played by Jesse Lee Soffer), and Hank Voight (played by Jason Beghe). Although rooted in fiction, the brutal nature of Nadia’s death mirrors the shocking realities often depicted in true crime narratives.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Matt Olmstead, the show’s showrunner, discussed the decision to kill off Nadia. He acknowledged the difficulty of the choice but ultimately believed it was beneficial for the storytelling, stating it would provide new arcs for the upcoming seasons. He remarked:
“At first I was reluctant because Stella the actress is so great and has been so much for us, but then it became apparent it wasn’t just a quick hit. It gave us definitely a season finale, and it’s going to give us something to come back to and play the beginning of next season. Just looking at what we could get and how it would affect other people and the drama we could get out of it, it was a very tough decision to make.”
For viewers, Nadia’s storyline continues to serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the emotional struggles characters face throughout the series, demonstrating the compelling nature of Chicago P.D.‘s narratives.