How Marina Squerciati’s Real Life Inspires Her Role as Kim Burgess on Chicago P.D.
After playing Detective Kim Burgess for 13 seasons and counting on Chicago P.D., you better believe Marina Squerciati shares some characteristics with the Intelligence Unit icon. Squerciati reveals that she can relate to Burgess as she balances the thrills of her career with the whirlwind of raising a little one.
How to Watch
Watch Chicago P.D. Wednesdays at 10/9c on NBC and next day on Peacock.
During her chat with NBC Insider, Squerciati opened up about the newlywed era between Burgess and Adam Ruzek (Patrick John Flueger), admitting that the couple has been together “so long and they’ve been through so much” that they’re not exactly “new” to exploring married life together. As adoptive parents to their teenage girl Makayla (Ramona Edith Williams), Burzek have settled into a domestic groove.
When the couple isn’t busting Windy City criminals, they’re helping their daughter get ready for school, watching a movie on a weekday night, enjoying a blissful day-to-day that they deserve after their adrenaline-fueled shifts. It’s a carefully curated equilibrium that the One Chicago star can certainly connect with.
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“I just think they’re just a normal couple,” Squerciati told us. “In a couple of episodes, I’m doing the dishes. And I like that. I’m packing a lunch. That’s her vibe. She’s also a bada*s and takes down criminals and bad guys and bad girls. But she also has to be home for pickups, so all that stuff is true to my life, as well.”
Marina Squerciati can relate to Mama Bear Burgess: “I’m living it and filming it”
Squerciati reflected on her own journey as a working mom after she and Chicago Fire star Miranda Rae Mayo and
“What I like about it is that it kind of keeps the show grounded in that they’re just two parents trying to get their kids to school,” Squerciati said. “And yes, they run into the danger of Chicago life. But also, at the end of the day, who’s doing pick up? And I know I can relate to that, because at the end of the day, after 14 hours of shooting, who’s doing pick up? Who’s getting her to soccer?”
“So I’m living it and filming it,” Squerciati added. “And I love that it shows real life and also this heightened reality.”
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As a mother of two and longtime P.D. star, Squerciati knows better than anyone that adaptability, attention to detail, and thinking on her feet are all advantageous to staying balanced as a working mom. In a 2021 interview with the
“As a working mom myself, it’s this constant hustle of trying to do your job while trying to take care of your kid, and earn a living at the same time,” she revealed. “Sometimes, I feel like I’m doing everything kind of well — I’m not killing it [laughs]; I’m doing okay.”
Watch Chicago P.D. on Wednesdays at 10/9c on NBC, or stream episodes the next day on Peacock.
Taylor Kinney Reacts to Being Named One of the World’s Most Handsome Men of 2025
When Chicago Fire star Taylor Kinney was officially named one of the World’s Most Handsome Men of 2025, fans erupted in celebration. Social media blazed with excitement for the actor who has spent more than a decade setting screens alight as Lieutenant Kelly Severide. For many, the recognition felt long overdue. For Kinney, it was simply humbling.
A Heartfelt, Grounded Reaction
While glossy magazines praised his “timeless masculinity” and “effortless confidence,” Kinney responded with characteristic humility. Rather than basking in the spotlight, he turned the moment into a thank-you to those who’ve supported him throughout his journey.
“It’s been a ride,” Kinney reflected. “Thirteen years on Chicago Fire have changed my life. The friendships, the lessons, the moments of laughter and loss — they’ve shaped me. So when people say kind things about me now, I think about all the people who got me here. My co-stars, the fans, the people who believed in me even when I didn’t fully believe in myself.”
Lady Gaga and Life Beyond the Headlines
Fans still remember Kinney’s high-profile engagement to Lady Gaga, and though their split made waves, both stars have spoken with mutual respect since. Gaga herself once described their time together as “a real love story,” and Kinney’s graceful handling of fame and heartbreak continues to earn admiration.
Today, the actor is in a happy relationship with model Ashley Cruger, who has also defended him online amid intense Chicago Fire fan discussions. Together, they’ve found balance beyond Hollywood’s chaos — a reflection of Kinney’s mature outlook on life.
Gratitude Over Glamour
Despite the global attention, Kinney remains focused on what truly matters. While many see this recognition as a stepping stone to blockbuster stardom, he prefers to keep his feet firmly on the ground.
“I’m thankful. That’s really the word,” he said simply. “It’s nice to be appreciated, but it’s even better to still be doing what I love — telling stories that mean something to people. Looks fade. But kindness, hard work, and connection — those are what last.”
