The rumor mill started churning when fans noticed a conspicuous absence of Kim Burgess in promotional materials for Season 12.
Adding fuel to the fire, Squerciati herself has been relatively quiet on social media about her involvement in the new season. In contrast, other actors like Jason Beghe (Hank Voight) and Tracy Spiridakos (Hailey Upton) have posted updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses of their work on set. This radio silence has only intensified fan theories about her departure. There are a few plausible reasons why the character of Kim Burgess could be leaving Chicago P.D..
Another possibility that has fans worried is the unpredictable nature of cast changes in Chicago P.D.. The show has seen key characters exit in dramatic ways, such as the departure of Sophia Bush’s Erin Lindsay and more recently Jesse Lee Soffer’s Jay Halstead. If Burgess does leave, it could be part of a larger shift in the show’s dynamics as it enters its 12th season, especially with new creative directions possibly coming into play. The absence of Burgess in the early teasers and promotional content has only added to the speculation. While it’s not uncommon for a show to withhold certain character arcs to build suspense, Burgess’s absence seems particularly glaring given her importance to the storylines of Season 11.
Last season ended with a lot of unresolved tension between Burgess and Ruzek, and fans were left wondering how their relationship would evolve. Furthermore, Burgess’s role as a mother to Makayla adds another layer of complexity to her storyline. With so many unresolved plot points, her absence in the teasers could either be a deliberate red herring to mislead fans or a genuine indication of her reduced role in Season 12.
Some fans are holding out hope that even if Burgess does leave, it might only be temporary. The One Chicago franchise has a history of bringing back characters after extended absences, and it’s possible that Burgess could return down the road if the storyline allows. Given the deep connection between her character and the audience, as well as her complicated relationship with Ruzek, it’s hard to imagine the writers letting her go without leaving the door open for a future comeback.
While it’s still too early to confirm whether Kim Burgess is truly leaving Chicago P.D., the clues are certainly raising eyebrows. Fans will have to wait until Season 12 airs to get a definitive answer. Regardless of whether she stays or goes, one thing is certain: Burgess’s impact on the show has been immense, and her departure—if it happens—will leave a significant void in the Chicago P.D. universe.
For now, fans can only speculate, but as the new season approaches, all eyes will be on the character of Kim Burgess and what fate awaits her. Will she get the happy ending she deserves, or will Chicago P.D. take another unexpected, heart-wrenching turn? Fans will just have to wait and see.
