Chicago P.D. has been going through a wave of significant changes, with several longtime cast members stepping away.
The lack of Burgess in the Season 12 premiere naturally raises the question: is Marina Squerciati leaving the show for good? Fortunately, early indications suggest her absence may be temporary. Marina Squerciati’s absence from the first episode has not gone unnoticed by eagle-eyed fans. However, sources close to the production have hinted that Burgess’s absence is more of a storyline decision rather than a permanent exit. While the specifics haven’t been officially confirmed, it’s believed that Burgess will reappear in future episodes, possibly returning with a major storyline of her own.
One plausible theory is that her absence is being used to build anticipation for her character’s return. Given Burgess’s emotional journey in the previous season, particularly after her traumatic kidnapping and subsequent struggles with PTSD, a temporary break could make her comeback all the more impactful.
Burgess has been through the wringer in the past few seasons. From adopting Makayla and balancing single motherhood with a high-stakes job to enduring near-death experiences, she has become one of the show’s most emotionally complex characters. It’s possible the writers are crafting a storyline where Burgess returns stronger than ever, perhaps even taking on a leadership role in the Intelligence Unit.
Additionally, fans of the Burgess-Ruzek relationship, affectionately dubbed “Burzek,” are hoping to see more development. With Ruzek’s prominent role in the Season 12 premiere, it’s likely that Burgess’s storyline will intersect with his in the coming episodes. Their on-again, off-again relationship could take new turns, especially if her absence is explained through personal or professional challenges. It’s also worth considering that Burgess’s temporary absence could be a strategic move to focus on other characters. With Tracy Spiridakos leaving and Jesse Lee Soffer gone, Chicago P.D. might be using this time to introduce new characters or elevate others within the ensemble. Squerciati’s return could signal a major shift, allowing her character to dominate future episodes.
While Kim Burgess’s absence from the Chicago P.D. Season 12 premiere may have caused some panic among fans, all signs point to Marina Squerciati’s return. For now, it seems her departure is not permanent, but rather a calculated storyline decision to give her character a fresh start or a compelling arc. Fans will just have to wait a little longer to see what’s next for the beloved Officer Burgess.
