One Chicago Podcast

Guest: Ariane Mandi (Officer Eva Amani on Chicago P.D.)
Host: Brian Luce
Date: February 5, 2026

Episode Overview

This episode features an in-depth interview with Ariane Mandi, who plays Officer Eva Amani—the newest member of the Chicago P.D. "bullpen." Host Brian Luce (a former cop and Chicago P.D. producer) invites Ariane to discuss what it's like joining an established cast, building her character, and the behind-the-scenes dynamic on set, especially her longtime friendship with co-star Benny Aguilar (Officer Torres). The episode also provides a deep-dive into Eva’s pivotal solo episode, her character’s traumatic backstory, and Mandi’s approach to performing emotionally charged material.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Real-Life Friendship with Benny Aguilar (Officer Torres)

[04:11–08:28]

• Ariane and Benny met in a Los Angeles jiu-jitsu class; their friendship predates the show.
• Their off-screen chemistry feeds into authentic camaraderie on-screen, especially in scenes like the "wire room."
• Early disbelief and excitement at being cast together made their first episodes special and “surreal.”

Quote:
"We just became the best of friends. Just very like, cut from the same cloth kind of people, you know?"
—Ariane Mandi [04:23]

Memorable moment:
Brian shares that on set, Jason Beghe (Voight) calls Ariane and Benny "two kittens in a basket of yarn" because of their playful energy. [07:52]

2. Crafting Eva Amani’s Character

[08:32–17:53]

• Ariane watched prior seasons to prepare, wanting to honor first responders’ real life stakes and trauma.
• Eva’s backstory includes a missing sister, shaping her as a solo, guarded person.
• Episodes gradually reveal her vulnerable and tough sides—balancing impulsiveness with restraint.

Quote:
"It's about the work. We're clearing this house while also getting to know each other... so who are you? What do you do? Oh, I don't trust you."
—Ariane Mandi [07:27]

Memorable scene:
First vulnerable car scene with Jason Beghe (Voight), where her character gently pushes Voight for personal information. Both actors relished the nuanced give-and-take. [10:43–11:52]

Notable insight:
Ariane is "still finding" Eva, allowing her real-life self and the character to mutually evolve:
"Just allow for Ari to learn from Eva and Eva to learn from Ari."
—Ariane Mandi [16:32]

3. Highlights from Key Episodes & Scenes

[17:53–19:19]

• Eva’s defining scene (with Ruzik in Episode 1): physical altercation and standoff—showcasing her fearless, lone ranger persona.
• Quiet, personal moments in her apartment reveal the character’s solitude and focus.

Quote:
"I'm like, I don't care what happens to me. I'm here, I'm doing my thing. I'm not afraid of this gun."
—Ariane Mandi [18:40]

4. Behind the Scenes: Ensemble, Crew, and Set Culture

[19:22–31:39]

• The ensemble cast is "tight-knit," with many team members rising through the ranks.
• Cast and crew maintain warmth and humor even in grueling conditions (e.g., filming in snow).
• Background actors and stunt coordinators (particularly Tom Lowe and Ariane’s stunt double Adrienne) are credited for professionalism and safety.

Quote:
"I feel so lucky to be with people who love their job as much as I do."
—Ariane Mandi [33:15]

Behind-the-scenes fun:
Shooting in the museum (Episode 12) involved real laughter and adventure between takes, exploring exhibits in downtime. [29:27–30:17]

5. Deep Dive on Eva’s “Solo” Episode (Episode 12)

[22:44–32:37]

• Ariane describes her mix of excitement and nerves tackling heavy subject matter (child abduction/pedophilia).
• She notes the emotional ambiguity of scenes where her character must notify a mother about her missing child—with no clear-cut answers.
• Guest stars (Donna Lynn, Jacob, Austin) were praised for powerful, sensitive performances.

Quote:
"How do you expect a mother to give up hope?"
—Ariane Mandi [27:12]

Most Challenging Scene:
Delivering devastating news to the mother:
"I really struggled with delivering the news to Gemma..."
[26:27–27:39]

6. Learning from Cast & Crew; Set Philosophy

[12:49–14:36, 34:11–35:28]

• Ariane has learned the most from both Benny (personal growth) and Jason Beghe (persistence, knowing when to lead vs. support).
• Crew-wide ethos: growth is valued, advancement is possible, and mutual care is palpable.
• Luci praises “undeniable” family atmosphere on set, highlighting cast longevity and deep bonds.

Quote:
"Everyone's so tight and all up in each other's business. And I love it."
—Ariane Mandi [34:11]

Notable Quotes & Moments with Timestamps

• "Two kittens in a basket of yarn." —Jason Beghe’s description of Ariane & Benny [07:52]
• "He's unapologetically himself." —Ariane Mandi on Jason Beghe/Voight [12:16]
• "The beautiful thing is we're all...giving from the top to the bottom." —Brian Luce [40:24]
• "Just allow for Ari to learn from Eva and Eva to learn from Ari." —Ariane Mandi [16:32]
• "How do you expect a mother to give up the hope?" —Ariane Mandi [27:13]

Rapid Fire: Fun Questions & Reflections

[35:41–38:52]

• Would bring Peitha (from Law & Order SVU) onto P.D.—for her legacy and power. [36:03]
• Who does Eva want on her six? Larois—"he's a tank." [36:59]
• Most tactically sound: Based on experience, Ben (Torres), but hears Ruzik and Burgess are top-notch. [37:13]
• If she could interrogate one castmate: Jason Beghe, and would ask "What are you most afraid of?" [38:48]

Behind the Scenes: Tricks, Challenges, and Camaraderie

• Ariane credits guest star Donna Lynn for her ability to switch intensity on/off, dancing after intense scenes [31:43–32:37].
• Crew members commonly advance through the ranks in the Chicago P.D. family, which is unusual in TV [34:33].
• Cast and crew remain connected to the “realness” of police work—Brian Luci’s background lends authenticity and gravity in handling sensitive storylines [40:24].

Final Reflections & Closing Words

• Ariane expresses ongoing gratitude for joining a community that is both talented and welcoming.
• Brian Luce praises Ariane for her dedication, humility, and positive energy as a newcomer.

Quote:
"You have brought this energy to Chicago PD being the newcomer, and you've taken on so much, and you've befriended everybody, and everybody just loves you."
—Brian Luce [39:03]

• Ariane reciprocates, crediting Brian as "the heart and soul of the show." [39:39]

Suggested Listening Segments

• Ariane on Friendship with Benny Aguilar (Torres): [04:23–08:28]
• Discussion on Building Character and Vulnerable Moments with Voight: [10:43–12:49]
• Detailed Analysis of Eva’s “Solo” Episode: [22:44–32:37]
• Rapid Fire Q&A: [35:41–38:52]

Tone & Takeaway

The conversation is warm, candid, and often humorous—peppered with fond teasing, earnest praise, and a clear sense of mutual respect throughout. Both host and guest remain deeply engaged with the emotional reality and responsibility of portraying law enforcement, but never lose sight of the value found in camaraderie, growth, and a tangible off-screen “PD family.”