Sophia Bush on Chicago PD Departure: I Was Miserable!

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Ever since Sophia Bush confirmed her departure from Chicago PD, there have been several questions about what caused her to give up on the show. 

Bush shed some light in a new interview about her departure in an interview with Refinery29 about her decision. While the 35-year-old never gave the official reason for her departure, she noted the truth wouldn't come out "until I’m ready to do that."

Sophia Bush

She called her casting on Chicago PD her "dream job" but by the end of the second season, “I knew by the end of the second season I couldn’t do that job anymore.”

What's heartbreaking about the whole thing is that it was clear Sophia was not happy with the way things were going throughout the production process of the series. 

Bush went to the producers after Season 3 wrapped and said, “If something really drastic doesn’t change, I’m leaving at the end of the year… I’m giving you 23 episodes’ notice.”

While she felt "liberated" to give the ultimatum to the producers, it helped her realize “just how miserable I was going to work every day.” 

Sophia Bush Attends Event

“For me, it felt like I was trapped in a burning building,” she added of the decision. “I was just so unhappy, and it was my dream job, and I was miserable, and I had to go.”

It was reported just a few weeks ago that Bush's co-star Jason Beghe's anger issues played a part in Sophia deciding it was time to move on from the series. 

While there has been no confirmation, Beghe released a statement of his own addressing his misconduct on set. 

I am deeply sorry for my behavior, which I know has been hurtful to my friends and colleagues,” he said.

A New Handler

“I have struggled with anger issues for some time, and over the past year, I have been working with a coach to help me learn how to mitigate my temper. It’s an ongoing process, and it has been a humbling one.

"It is a source of great pride for me to be part of Chicago P.D.’s incredible cast and crew.

"I have personally apologized to anyone who I have upset, and I am committed to doing what is necessary to make up any damage that I may have caused.”

Bush has since moved on from the series and inked a talent and development deal at 20th Century Fox Television

Over to you, Chicago PD Fanatics. 

What do you think of this?

Hit the comments. 

Remember you can watch Chicago PD online right here via TV Fanatic. 

Get caught up now.

Paul Dailly was an Associate Editor for TV Fanatic.Follow him on X.

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