In an exciting and emotional update that has thrilled fans around the world, Marina Squerciati, best known for her role as Officer Kim Burgess on NBC’s Chicago P.D., has officially welcomed her second child in 2024. The news, which came as a delightful surprise to many, marks a joyous new chapter in the actress’s personal life. Known for keeping her private world out of the spotlight, Marina chose a simple but touching way to share the announcement, posting a photo of a tiny pair of baby feet alongside the heartfelt caption, “And then there were four.” With this post, she confirmed that her family has grown once again, bringing an outpouring of love and congratulations from fans, friends, and castmates alike.
This is Marina’s second child, and while details such as the baby’s name and gender have not yet been revealed, the moment speaks volumes about where she is in her life — both as a mother and a performer. Her first child was born in 2017, during the height of her success on Chicago P.D., and fans will remember how gracefully she navigated filming demanding episodes while pregnant, often concealing her bump in clever ways on screen. Now, as she steps into motherhood again, fans are naturally asking an important question: how will this affect her role as Kim Burgess on Chicago P.D.?
As of now, no official word has been released from NBC or the Chicago P.D. showrunners regarding a temporary hiatus or any scheduling adjustments for Marina. However, based on past experience, it’s clear the production team knows how to support her both professionally and personally. When Marina was pregnant with her first child, she continued to appear on the show without disrupting the storyline. With creative camera work and storyline flexibility, the team ensured that Marina remained front and center while also honoring her needs off-screen. It wouldn’t be surprising if the same approach is used again, especially with the strong support system within the One Chicago universe.
Interestingly, Marina’s real-life journey mirrors that of her character in many ways. Kim Burgess, over the past few seasons, has grown into one of the most emotionally complex characters in the franchise. From surviving brutal attacks to becoming a fiercely protective adoptive mother to Makayla, Burgess’s evolution has been profound. Marina herself has often said that becoming a mother in real life has deepened her portrayal of Burgess. In one interview, she noted that motherhood gave her new insight into the vulnerability and strength her character needed to show, especially during storylines involving trauma, resilience, and parental love.
With this recent life change, there’s speculation among fans and critics alike that the writers might choose to reflect Marina’s real motherhood in the series. The show has always taken pride in weaving personal milestones into its characters’ arcs, and this could offer a meaningful opportunity to explore themes of work-life balance, motherhood in high-stress professions, and the challenges faced by women in law enforcement who also raise families. The emotional depth Marina brings to the role makes her perfectly suited to take on these nuanced storylines.
The excitement over Marina’s announcement has extended far beyond her fanbase. Many of her Chicago P.D. castmates shared their reactions on social media, celebrating her newest addition. Patrick John Flueger, who plays Adam Ruzek and is Burgess’s long-time on-screen partner, reportedly said, “We’ve always known Marina was a supermom. Now she’s leveling up.” Other cast members, like LaRoyce Hawkins (Kevin Atwater) and Tracy Spiridakos (Hailey Upton), left messages of love and support, reinforcing the bond that exists among the One Chicago family. It’s clear that whatever direction Marina chooses — whether she steps back for a brief period or continues to appear on screen — she’ll be surrounded by a team that fully supports her.
This announcement also contributes to a broader, ongoing conversation in Hollywood about motherhood and the evolving roles of actresses. For decades, there was a stigma around actresses starting or growing families while maintaining careers in leading roles. But Marina, along with many others, is helping rewrite that narrative. She’s proving that motherhood doesn’t mean slowing down — it can enrich, empower, and inspire both the performer and the performance.
As Chicago P.D. continues to push forward into Season 12 and beyond, fans are eager to see how Marina’s life off-screen may influence the development of Burgess on-screen. Whether it leads to deeper emotional storylines, moments of personal growth, or simply a more reflective portrayal of motherhood under pressure, the possibilities are endless. What’s certain is that Marina’s journey — both as an actress and as a mother — will only strengthen the powerful presence she brings to the show. In the end, this announcement is about more than just one actress welcoming a baby. It’s about the real-life milestones that make fictional stories feel more authentic. It’s about the joy of new life, the strength of working mothers, and the incredible journey Marina Squerciati continues to take — both as Kim Burgess and as herself. Congratulations, Marina! Your fans can’t wait to see what comes next.
