After twelve gripping seasons of Chicago P.D., few characters have evolved more powerfully than Officer Kim Burgess. In the explosive Season 12 finale, Burgess didn’t just survive — she transformed. The episode delivered emotional weight, career-altering decisions, and a personal reckoning that promises to reshape the core of the Intelligence Unit going forward. Now, Marina Squerciati, the actress behind Burgess, is speaking out about what really went down — and what it means for the future of her character.
The episode culminated in a dangerous operation that forced Burgess into a confrontation not just with criminals — but with the woman she used to be. Torn between duty, family, and personal safety, Burgess made a life-altering choice that could have long-lasting consequences. “We didn’t want this to be a ‘shootout and credits’ finale,” Squerciati explained. “It had to reflect the internal war Burgess has been fighting all season long.”
Throughout Season 12, the emotional heartbeat of the show has remained the relationship between Burgess and Ruzek — affectionately known by fans as Burzek. While the couple seemed closer than ever this year, the finale exposed a painful truth: trauma changes people, and sometimes, it drives them apart.“They love each other, but love isn’t always enough,” Squerciati reflected. “Burgess is changing. She’s no longer looking for someone to fix things. She wants to stand on her own.” In the finale’s final moments, a silent exchange between Burgess and Ruzek said more than words ever could. Whether this marks a temporary break or a permanent shift remains to be seen.“Season 13 is going to answer a lot of questions,” she teased. “But don’t expect a fairytale — expect real, messy, human decisions.”
While Burgess was undergoing her personal transformation, Hank Voight — the long-time commander of the Intelligence Unit — was facing his own crisis. As his tactics and leadership style came under fire, the once unshakable bond between Voight and his team began to show signs of strain.“There’s a shift happening,” Squerciati acknowledged. “Voight has always been this looming, powerful presence. But the newer generation of officers is starting to question him. Not out of disrespect — but out of growth.”The finale hinted at growing tensions between Burgess and Voight, setting the stage for a potential power struggle in Season 13.“She’s not just following orders anymore,” Squerciati said. “She’s finding her voice. And she’s not afraid to use it.”
One of the most powerful aspects of Burgess’s storyline has been her journey into motherhood. Her adoption of Makayla brought a softer, deeply vulnerable side to the character — one that now informs every decision she makes.“Burgess isn’t just fighting for herself anymore,” Squerciati explained. “She’s fighting for her daughter. Everything she does is about protecting that little girl, even if it means sacrificing parts of herself.” This layer of emotional responsibility has grounded Burgess in ways that bullets and cases never could. “Being a mother changed her trajectory completely,” Squerciati said. “She’s stronger because she has someone worth fighting for.”
NBC has confirmed Chicago P.D. will return for a 13th season, and while no official plot details have been released, Squerciati confirmed that the writers are leaning into character-driven arcs more than ever before. “There’s a real focus on consequences this time,” she revealed. “What happens when you bury trauma? When you ignore your own pain for the sake of the badge? Season 13 won’t shy away from those questions.” Fans can expect a more introspective, emotionally raw season — with Burgess at the center. “Burgess is stepping into her own power,” Squerciati said. “She’s done being reactive. Now, she’s leading.”
Following the finale, social media platforms lit up with reactions from passionate fans. From heartbreak over Burzek to admiration for Burgess’s strength, one thing was clear: viewers are deeply invested in her story. “Marina Squerciati deserves every award for that performance,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “Burgess is the heart of Chicago P.D. now. Give her a badge and a promotion already,” another said.
“I cried for her. She’s come so far,” one fan posted on Reddit. Twelve seasons in, and Chicago P.D. continues to push the boundaries of what a network procedural can be. And in Marina Squerciati’s Kim Burgess, the show has found its most human, most resilient voice. The Season 12 finale wasn’t just another thrilling conclusion — it was the beginning of a new chapter. For Burgess. For the Intelligence Unit. And for the series itself.
