Since the very beginning of Chicago P.D., Marina Squerciati has captivated audiences with her compelling portrayal of Officer Kim Burgess. As one of the most beloved characters in the One Chicago universe, Burgess has evolved from a determined patrol officer to a fierce and resilient member of the Intelligence Unit. Through heart-wrenching tragedies, thrilling police chases, and moments of deep emotional vulnerability, Squerciati has brought Kim Burgess to life in a way that resonates with fans worldwide.
From Patrol to Intelligence: Kim Burgess’s Growth
When Chicago P.D. premiered in 2014, Kim Burgess was introduced as an ambitious beat cop with aspirations of making a real difference. From the start, her dedication to the job was evident, and it quickly became clear that she was destined for something greater. Though she faced numerous professional setbacks—most notably being passed over for an Intelligence position in the early seasons—Burgess never lost her passion for the job.
It wasn’t until later that Sergeant Hank Voight (Jason Beghe) recognized her potential and finally welcomed her into Intelligence, cementing her status as a core member of the team. But her journey hasn’t been easy. Unlike many of her colleagues who entered Intelligence with an extensive background in undercover work or investigations, Burgess had to prove herself every step of the way. She took on some of the unit’s toughest cases, often putting herself in grave danger to protect the people of Chicago.
Kim Burgess’s Personal Struggles and Resilience
One of the reasons fans connect so deeply with Burgess is her unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. Over the years, she has endured unimaginable loss, heartbreak, and trauma—yet she continues to push forward.
Her relationship with fellow officer Adam Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger) has been a rollercoaster of emotions. From their passionate romance to an unexpected engagement and a heartbreaking miscarriage, their dynamic remains one of the most complex and emotionally charged storylines on the show. Despite their ups and downs, Burgess and Ruzek share an undeniable bond, and fans have long hoped for them to find happiness together.
Burgess’s personal struggles don’t stop at her romantic life. In one of Chicago P.D.‘s most devastating storylines, she suffered a brutal kidnapping and assault that left her physically and emotionally scarred. Yet, rather than allowing trauma to define her, she channeled her pain into strength, proving time and time again why she’s one of the toughest officers in the unit.
Marina Squerciati’s Impact on Chicago P.D.’s Success
A significant reason for Burgess’s success as a character is the powerhouse performance delivered by Marina Squerciati. Over the years, Squerciati has transformed Burgess into more than just a cop—she’s a fully realized character with depth, humanity, and an undeniable fighting spirit.
Fans have praised Squerciati for her ability to bring raw emotion to some of the show’s most intense moments. Whether she’s delivering a heart-wrenching monologue about loss, standing her ground in a heated standoff, or sharing tender moments with Ruzek and her adopted daughter, Makayla, Squerciati consistently delivers a performance that leaves a lasting impact.
Her dedication to the role extends beyond the screen. She frequently engages with fans on social media, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of life on set and celebrating Chicago P.D.’s milestones alongside her co-stars. Her deep love for the show and her character is evident in every interview she gives, further solidifying her status as a fan favorite.
What’s Next for Kim Burgess?
As Chicago P.D. continues to evolve, Burgess’s journey remains one of the most compelling storylines. With new challenges ahead and a team that depends on her, the future is wide open for Burgess. Will she and Ruzek finally find stability in their relationship? Will she take on even bigger leadership roles within the unit? One thing is certain: Burgess is far from done proving why she’s one of Chicago’s finest.
Marina Squerciati’s portrayal of Officer Kim Burgess has left an indelible mark on Chicago P.D. and its audience. Through triumphs and tragedies, action-packed cases and personal struggles, Burgess has grown into one of the strongest and most beloved characters in the One Chicago universe. And as long as the streets of Chicago need protecting, there’s no doubt that Kim Burgess will be right there—badge on, gun ready, and heart fully in the fight.
