In the gritty world of Chicago P.D., where high-stakes crime scenes and emotional showdowns dominate the screen, one tiny character has quietly become a powerful presence: Makayla Burgess, the adopted daughter of Officer Kim Burgess and the recently reunited Adam Ruzek. Her storyline has brought warmth, heartbreak, and hope to the series, and fans are eager to learn more about the young actress behind the role.
Makayla’s introduction to the show wasn’t just a character arc—it was a turning point for Burgess. After a traumatic kidnapping case, Burgess decided to adopt Makayla, a young girl who had lost her entire family. What followed was a beautifully complex journey of healing, resilience, and the realities of single parenthood while working in law enforcement. And then came Ruzek—who, despite their rocky relationship, stepped up in a big way to help raise Makayla, eventually becoming a central figure in her life. Their small, makeshift family became a fan-favorite dynamic.
Though she doesn’t have many lines, the child actress playing Makayla has delivered moving, expressive performances that resonate with audiences. Her silent stares, shy smiles, and tearful moments all feel deeply real—especially during episodes that spotlight her trauma and recovery. Viewers praise her ability to hold her own in scenes with seasoned actors like Marina Squerciati and Patrick John Flueger. Whether she’s being comforted by Burgess or playing in the background during a rare moment of peace, Makayla exudes innocence in a world filled with danger.
This emotional depth has made her a beloved fixture on the show. But there’s also curiosity surrounding the young actress herself. While Chicago P.D. tends to keep its youngest stars out of the public spotlight for safety and privacy, fans who’ve followed the show closely know just how much of an impact this little girl has made on the series. On social media, fans regularly comment on how “Makayla is the heart of the show now” or how they’d love to see a full episode devoted to a day in her life.
Her presence has also served to deepen the emotional range of both Burgess and Ruzek. Watching two cops navigate parenthood while maintaining their demanding careers has added layers of vulnerability to their characters. And for longtime fans, it’s been rewarding to see Burgess transform into a fiercely protective mother, while Ruzek—often impulsive and emotionally guarded—grows into a steady, nurturing presence.
In Season 12, Makayla’s appearances may be more sporadic due to the show’s heavier crime plots, but every scene she’s in still carries weight. Whether she’s asking if Ruzek will be home for dinner or quietly reacting to tension between the adults around her, the actress never fails to tug at the audience’s heartstrings. As Chicago P.D. heads into Season 13, fans are eager to see what’s next for this young family. Will we get more family-centered storylines? How will Makayla continue to shape Burgess and Ruzek’s dynamic? And could we even see her take a more active role as she grows older?
