Onscreen, Marina Squerciati has spent more than a decade bringing Officer Kim Burgess to life on Chicago P.D., a character defined by bravery, resilience, and a knack for surviving the unthinkable in Chicago’s most dangerous streets. But when the cameras stop rolling, the actress’s life couldn’t be more different — and fans are constantly amazed at how grounded and relatable she is outside of the high-stakes world of Intelligence.
Unlike her gritty character, Squerciati’s real world is filled with laughter, family time, and a passion for creativity beyond acting. One of the things fans love most is how open she is about motherhood. “Being a mom is the hardest role I’ve ever had, but also the most rewarding,” she once shared in an interview. Her social media often gives glimpses into her life with her young daughter — from funny parenting mishaps to heartwarming moments that show a softer, very human side to the actress.
Away from the set, Marina has also built a reputation for her sense of humor. Whether it’s behind-the-scenes bloopers or witty Instagram captions, she keeps fans entertained with a refreshing mix of honesty and charm. “She’s nothing like Burgess,” one castmate teased. “She’s way funnier and way less serious in real life.”
Her personal passions extend far beyond television. From her love of literature to her advocacy for women in the entertainment industry, Marina has never shied away from using her platform to highlight meaningful causes. Fans often praise her for balancing career success with authenticity, showing that it’s possible to thrive in Hollywood without losing touch with who you really are.
Still, there are similarities between Marina and Kim Burgess — especially when it comes to resilience. While Burgess faces trauma and heartbreak onscreen, Marina has been candid about navigating her own struggles and setbacks with grace. That honesty is part of what makes her so beloved by Chicago P.D. viewers.
As Season 12 of Chicago P.D. continues, fans will no doubt keep tuning in for Burgess’s next chapter — but it’s Marina Squerciati’s life away from the cameras that keeps them inspired long after the credits roll.
