
Fans of Chicago P.D. have been captivated by the complex, often tumultuous, and ultimately enduring relationship between Kim Burgess and Adam Ruzek, affectionately known as “Burzek.” But what truly makes their on-screen chemistry so compelling isn’t just clever writing; it’s the deep, genuine friendship that has blossomed between actors Marina Squerciati and Patrick Flueger off-screen. From the very beginning, their connection has been the secret ingredient, adding layers of authenticity that resonate deeply with viewers.
An Unmistakable Connection From Day One
When Marina and Patrick were cast as Burgess and Ruzek in Season 1, their early scenes hinted at potential. Yet, it was behind the cameras where their true compatibility began to shine. Co-stars quickly noticed their shared sense of humor, natural banter, and mutual respect. They weren’t just reciting lines; they were building a real, genuine rapport. As the writers increasingly leaned into the possibility of “Burzek,” it became clear that the foundation of the pairing wasn’t solely good storytelling – it was deeply rooted in their real-life camaraderie.
Comfort That Breeds Creativity and Authenticity
Both actors have consistently spoken in interviews about how easy it is to work together. Marina once described Patrick as “the most fun person on set,” while Patrick has called Marina “one of the smartest, quickest people I know.” Their mutual admiration is palpable, not just in their words, but in the ease and vulnerability they bring to even the most emotional scenes.
One of the biggest advantages of their friendship is the unwavering trust it fosters. Emotional intimacy on camera – especially in romantic scenes – demands a level of comfort and openness that’s incredibly difficult to fake. With Marina and Patrick, that emotional safety net is already firmly in place. Whether they’re filming a tense breakup or a tender reunion, the authenticity shines through. Fans don’t just believe that Burgess and Ruzek love each other; they feel it. That profound level of connection isn’t built overnight; it’s the result of years of friendship, thousands of hours on set, and a shared willingness to be emotionally available.
In a 2023 interview, Marina lightheartedly quipped, “We’ve played every emotion there is — love, betrayal, grief, panic. I think Patrick has seen me cry more times than my real-life best friends!” Patrick, smiling beside her, added, “And somehow, we still like each other.”
The Cornerstone of the Burzek Fandom
It’s no surprise that fans are deeply invested in Burgess and Ruzek’s relationship, and that investment extends far beyond the show’s narrative. Social media is brimming with behind-the-scenes videos, interviews, and photos of Marina and Patrick playfully interacting between takes, teasing each other, or offering quiet support during intense shooting days.
Their undeniable off-screen chemistry has become a cornerstone of the “Burzek” fandom. It’s common to see comments like, “I ship them in real life too!” or “No one can replace their dynamic.” While both actors have maintained privacy regarding their personal lives – and there’s no confirmation of an off-screen romantic relationship – that hasn’t stopped fans from dreaming. What matters more, however, is that they show us what a truly supportive, playful, and deeply respectful professional friendship looks like.
Evolving On-Screen, Rooted in Real Friendship
One of the most powerful developments in recent seasons has been Kim and Adam’s decision to co-parent Makayla. This storyline added a new layer of depth and realism to their dynamic, moving the narrative away from traditional romantic tropes into something far more grounded: modern love through shared responsibility.
Portraying such a nuanced evolution required immense maturity from both actors, and this is where their off-screen friendship truly shined. Marina has spoken about how she and Patrick worked closely with the writers and directors to ensure the storyline felt authentic. They rehearsed more deeply, discussed character choices, and even improvised at times to bring natural tension or tenderness to a scene. Their collaborative spirit enriched the storyline, transforming “Burzek” from just a couple into a family – flawed, complicated, and incredibly relatable.
The enduring bond between Marina Squerciati and Patrick Flueger is a testament to the power of genuine connection in storytelling. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most compelling on-screen relationships are built on the bedrock of a real, heartfelt friendship.