Chicago P.D., a prominent show in the One Chicago franchise, has captured fans’ hearts with its gritty storytelling and dynamic characters. One character who stands out is Officer Kim Burgess, played by Marina Squerciati. Her complex storylines, emotional
journey, and strong presence have made her a fan favorite. However, in the Season 12 premiere of Chicago P.D., fans were quick to notice that Kim Burgess was missing from the screen. This absence has left viewers wondering: where is Kim, and what happened to her?
Kim Burgess’ Journey So Far on Chicago P.D.
Kim Burgess has been a crucial member of the Chicago Police Department’s Intelligence Unit since early in the series. Over the years, her character has evolved from a patrol officer to an integral member of the elite squad, often balancing the demands of her job with her personal life.
One of the most significant aspects of Kim’s journey has been her relationship with Adam Ruzek, another key character on the show. Their relationship has been rocky, filled with ups and downs, but they’ve managed to pull through despite the challenges. By the end of Season 11, viewers witnessed Kim and Adam’s third engagement, a pivotal moment for their relationship that had fans excited for what would come next.
Kim Burgess in Season 12: Where Is She?
At the start of Chicago P.D. Season 12, which premiered in September 2024, fans were surprised by the absence of Kim Burgess. Her character didn’t appear in the first episode, “Ten Ninety-Nine,” leading many to speculate about what happened to her. Did something tragic occur, or is she taking a break from the show?
The good news is that Kim Burgess is not gone for good. In the season premiere, her absence is explained when Adam Ruzek shares with Atwater that Kim is attending a National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE) Conference. This
development highlights Kim’s career growth and her involvement in furthering her knowledge and leadership within law enforcement. Ruzek mentions that while Kim is learning a lot at the conference, she’s also disturbed by a case and might return to Chicago sooner than expected.
While Kim’s absence is temporary, her time away from the team provides a window for some other storylines to unfold, including the introduction of a new character, Detective Emily Martel. However, it also hints at the possibility of Kim being in line for a promotion, something that has been hinted at in various interviews with the show’s creators.
The Tragic Twist in Kim’s Absence
While Kim is away at the NAWLEE Conference, Chicago P.D. throws a shocking twist into the storyline. During the premiere episode, Detective Emily Martel, a new addition to the team and someone who worked closely with Ruzek, is tragically killed. Martel had proven herself a valuable member of the squad and even saved Ruzek’s life during a tense standoff. However, a random shooting leaves her dead, devastating Ruzek and the rest of the Intelligence Unit.
This loss adds emotional depth to the show, leaving fans grieving over a character they barely had the chance to know. For Ruzek, the death of Martel hits especially hard, as it occurred while Kim was absent. This adds a layer of complexity to his character, especially with Kim set to return in the third episode of the season.
When Will Kim Burgess Return?
Although Kim was absent in the first two episodes of Season 12, fans won’t have to wait long for her return. Showrunner Gwen Sigan confirmed that Kim will be back in Episode 3, which promises to bring her back into the fold with an intriguing storyline.
Not only is Kim’s return significant for the Intelligence Unit, but it also sets the stage for her relationship with Ruzek to evolve. Last season ended with their engagement, and rumors about an upcoming wedding have been swirling. Sigan hinted that a wedding might be in the near future for Kim and Ruzek, with details of the event possibly unfolding in the next few episodes.
What Happened to Kim Burgess Last Season?
Before her brief absence in Season 12, Kim Burgess had a dramatic and emotional storyline in Season 11. One of the most exciting developments was her engagement to Ruzek for the third time. Their engagement in Episode 3, “Safe Harbor,” was a quiet and intimate moment, with Ruzek proposing in their bedroom. This engagement marked a significant turning point in their relationship, signaling that they were finally ready to take the next step after years of ups and downs.
As actress Marina Squerciati noted in an interview, the tumultuous nature of their relationship had previously made it difficult for them to fully commit. However, after everything they had been through, their bond was stronger than ever. She mentioned that both characters had matured, and their relationship had become one of the most stable aspects of their lives. This newfound stability is something that fans can expect to see more of in the coming episodes.
The Possibility of a Wedding for Kim and Ruzek
One of the most anticipated moments in Chicago P.D. is the potential wedding between Kim Burgess and Adam Ruzek. While the couple has faced countless challenges throughout the series, their engagement in Season 11 hinted at a more permanent commitment. Showrunner Gwen Sigan has confirmed that a wedding could be on the horizon, and fans are eager to see how this unfolds.
The dynamic between Kim and Ruzek is one of the most beloved aspects of the show. Their deep connection, combined with their individual growth as characters, makes them a power couple within the One Chicago universe. The prospect of a wedding not only adds excitement to the storyline but also serves as a testament to their resilience and love.
Kim’s Career Growth and Possible Promotion
In addition to the personal developments in Kim’s life, her professional growth is another focal point of the new season. Kim attending the NAWLEE Conference is a testament to her dedication to her career. It’s also been hinted that Kim could be up for a promotion to detective, a role that many fans have felt she deserves.
During a September 2024 interview with TV Insider, showrunner Gwen Sigan hinted at the possibility of someone in the Intelligence Unit receiving a promotion. While she didn’t explicitly mention Kim by name, fans speculate that Kim could be the one getting promoted, especially given her absence at the conference and her growing role within the department.
Conclusion
Kim Burgess has been an essential part of Chicago P.D. since the show’s early seasons, and while her absence in the Season 12 premiere left fans concerned, the good news is that it’s only temporary. As Kim focuses on her professional development at the NAWLEE Conference, fans can rest assured that she will return in Episode 3. Her comeback is likely to bring exciting developments, both in her career and her personal life, particularly with the potential for a wedding to Adam Ruzek on the horizon.
With her continued growth as a law enforcement officer and the strengthening of her relationship with Ruzek, Kim Burgess remains a cornerstone of the Chicago P.D. series. As fans eagerly await her return, it’s clear that her journey is far from over, and there’s much more in store for this beloved character.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why was Kim Burgess absent in the Season 12 premiere of Chicago P.D.?
Kim Burgess was attending the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE) Conference, which explains her temporary absence from the team.
2. When will Kim Burgess return to Chicago P.D.?
Kim Burgess is set to return in Season 12, Episode 3, after missing the first two episodes due to her attendance at the conference.
3. Is Kim Burgess getting a promotion on Chicago P.D.?
While it’s not confirmed, there are hints that Kim could be in line for a promotion, particularly given her attendance at the NAWLEE Conference and the showrunner’s comments about a character getting promoted.
4. Are Kim Burgess and Adam Ruzek getting married?
Yes, Kim and Adam got engaged for the third time in Season 11, and a wedding is likely to happen in the near future, as teased by the show’s creators.
5. What happened to Detective Emily Martel in Chicago P.D. Season 12?
Detective Emily Martel, a new addition to the team, was tragically killed in the Season 12 premiere during a random shooting. Her death left Adam Ruzek and the rest of the team devastated.
