Chicago P.D. fans are no strangers to shocking departures and high-stakes drama. But nothing could prepare them for the wave of concern that swept across social media when NBC released new promo photos for the upcoming season — and one key character was nowhere to be found.
The promotional shots featured the Intelligence Unit back in action: Sergeant Hank Voight (Jason Beghe) standing tall and brooding, Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger) looking sharp post-recovery, and even new faces stepping into the frame. But noticeably absent? Kim Burgess (played by Marina Squerciati), the tough-as-nails detective and fan-favorite who has long been the emotional heartbeat of the team.
Fans immediately began speculating. “Where is Kim Burgess?!” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter), with thousands echoing the sentiment. Her absence felt more like a deliberate omission than a scheduling oversight. After all, Burgess has been a major player in recent storylines, especially her complex relationship with Ruzek and the trauma she’s endured from past cases.
Adding fuel to the fire is the fact that Marina Squerciati hasn’t been seen on set in recent behind-the-scenes photos shared by other cast members. This silence has only intensified theories that something big is happening behind the scenes. Could she be leaving the show? Is she being written out slowly? Or is this all a cleverly crafted narrative to keep viewers guessing?
Last season, Burgess faced life-threatening moments and deep emotional turmoil. From being shot and battling PTSD to struggling with motherhood and her rekindled romance with Ruzek, she’s carried some of the show’s heaviest emotional beats. Many believe her character is overdue for either a break — or a dramatic sendoff.
There’s also growing concern that NBC might be preparing the audience for a significant death. The show’s writers have never shied away from taking bold risks, and with several major cast exits already shaking the Chicago P.D. universe in recent seasons — including the emotional departure of Detective Hailey Upton — fans are bracing for the worst.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. Some optimists think Burgess’ absence from the promo photos might be a red herring — a strategic move to set up a twist. Perhaps she’s undercover, or pulled into a storyline so pivotal that even promotional material must be kept under wraps. It wouldn’t be the first time One Chicago has pulled a fast one on its loyal fanbase.
Still, with no official statement from NBC or Marina herself, fans are left to speculate and worry. And when it comes to a beloved character like Kim Burgess, uncertainty cuts deep.
What is clear is that Chicago P.D. is heading into one of its most unpredictable seasons yet. If the promo shots are any indication, no one is safe, and nothing is off the table. The absence of Burgess in these images might just be the tip of the iceberg.
