Few moments stand out more in an actor’s career than meeting someone whose influence transcends television and film. For one Chicago P.D. actress, that life-changing encounter came in the form of a meeting with former U.S. President Barack Obama—a moment that not only thrilled fans but also highlighted the cultural impact of NBC’s hit police drama.
Marina Squerciati, who has portrayed Detective Kim Burgess since the show’s debut in 2014, had the opportunity to meet President Obama during his time in office. The actress, known for her candid social media presence, has often described the encounter as surreal, recalling how Obama’s charisma and warmth immediately put her at ease. For fans of Chicago P.D., it was a fascinating convergence of fiction and reality: a television star embodying Chicago law enforcement meeting the real-life leader who once called the city home.
At the time, Obama was not just the nation’s president but also a proud representative of Chicago’s resilience and diversity. His path from community organizer to the White House mirrored the city’s grit—qualities that Chicago P.D. itself often seeks to capture through its storytelling. In this sense, the meeting between Obama and Squerciati felt symbolic, bridging the gap between Chicago’s fictional defenders and its most famous real-life leader.
Reports of the meeting quickly captured the attention of fans, who saw it as a badge of honor for the One Chicago franchise. The series has always prided itself on authenticity, often filming on location and portraying Chicago not just as a backdrop but as a character in its own right. The fact that one of its lead actresses had the chance to engage with Obama only deepened that sense of connection to the city’s real identity.
Squerciati herself later reflected on Obama’s humor, charm, and ability to make people feel seen—qualities that resonated with her as an actress working on a show about justice and community. She noted how striking it was to meet a global figure yet feel as though she was speaking with someone who understood her craft and the role television plays in shaping public perception.
For Obama, the meeting was one of countless interactions with cultural figures during his presidency, yet it underscored his longstanding appreciation for the arts and storytelling. He has frequently spoken about the importance of representation in media, and shows like Chicago P.D. have contributed to that ongoing dialogue by placing diverse, complex characters at the center of its narratives.
In retrospect, the encounter remains a highlight not just for Squerciati but for the Chicago P.D. fandom as a whole. It serves as a reminder of the unique ways in which politics, culture, and entertainment can intersect, leaving lasting impressions on both sides. For fans, it also reinforced the idea that their favorite series isn’t just fiction—it’s a cultural touchstone with ties to real-world history.
