Marina Squerciati is an American actress best known for her compelling portrayal of Kim Burgess on NBC’s long-running police drama Chicago P.D. With a strong background in theater and over a decade of television experience, Marina Squerciati has established herself as a respected and recognizable figure in American television. Her performances are widely praised for emotional depth, realism, and consistency, making her one of the standout actors in the Chicago franchise.
Quick Facts
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Full Name: Marina Teresa Squerciati
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Date of Birth: April 30, 1984
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Age: 41
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Birthplace: New York City, United States
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Nationality: American
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Profession: Actress
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Known For: Kim Burgess on Chicago P.D.
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Education: Northwestern University (Bachelor’s degree in Theater)
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Years Active: 2009–present
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Marital Status: Married
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Spouse: Eli Kay-Oliphant (attorney)
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Children: One daughter
Introduction
Marina Squerciati is best recognized for her work in crime and drama television series, particularly for her role as Kim Burgess on Chicago P.D. Since joining the show, she has become a fan favorite due to her authentic portrayal of a police officer navigating professional challenges and personal struggles. Beyond television, Squerciati’s foundation in theater has played a significant role in shaping her disciplined and emotionally grounded acting style.
Early Life and Education
Marina Squerciati was born on April 30, 1984, in New York City, where she was raised in a culturally rich environment that encouraged creativity and artistic expression. From a young age, she showed an interest in performance and storytelling, which later guided her career path toward acting. She attended Northwestern University, one of the most prestigious institutions for theater education in the United States. There, she earned a bachelor’s degree in theater and received formal training in stage performance, voice, and character development. This classical education helped her build a strong technical foundation, which continues to be evident in her screen performances.
Acting Career
Early Career
After graduating from Northwestern University, Marina Squerciati began her professional acting career in theater and independent film projects. She later transitioned into television, appearing in guest roles on several popular shows. These early performances allowed her to gain experience across different genres and helped her build credibility within the entertainment industry. Before her breakthrough, she appeared in series such as Law & Order: SVU, Blue Bloods, and Gossip Girl, showcasing her versatility and ability to adapt to diverse roles.
Breakthrough Role in Chicago P.D.
Chicago P.D.
Marina Squerciati’s career reached a turning point when she was cast as Kim Burgess on Chicago P.D. in 2014. Initially introduced as a uniformed patrol officer, Burgess gradually evolved into a key member of the Intelligence Unit and later became a detective. Squerciati’s portrayal of Kim Burgess is widely regarded as one of the most emotionally layered performances on the show. She has handled complex storylines involving trauma, ethical dilemmas, leadership, and personal loss with nuance and authenticity. Her ability to balance vulnerability with strength has earned her critical praise and a loyal fan following.
Kim Burgess’s character development over multiple seasons reflects Marina Squerciati’s growth as an actress and her capacity to sustain long-term character arcs on network television.
Film and Television Work
Television
In addition to Chicago P.D., Marina Squerciati has appeared in several notable television productions, including:
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Chicago Fire (crossover appearances as Kim Burgess)
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Chicago Med (crossover appearances)
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Law & Order: SVU
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Blue Bloods
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Gossip Girl
These roles further demonstrate her range and adaptability as a television actress.
Film
Marina Squerciati has also worked in film, with appearances in:
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Frances Ha
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It’s Complicated
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Sparks
While film is not her primary focus, these projects highlight her ability to transition between television and cinema.
Theater Background
Before gaining mainstream recognition on television, Marina Squerciati was actively involved in theater. She performed in stage productions that allowed her to hone her craft and develop a strong command of live performance. Her theatrical background contributes significantly to her screen presence, precise delivery, and emotional realism.
Personal Life
Marina Squerciati is married to Eli Kay-Oliphant, a respected attorney. The couple has one daughter together. Despite her public career, Squerciati maintains a relatively private personal life and rarely shares details about her family. This approach has helped her balance the demands of fame with a sense of normalcy and stability.
See Also: Marina Squerciati Husband
Public Image and Recognition
Marina Squerciati is widely respected within the television industry for her professionalism, consistency, and dedication to her craft. Fans of Chicago P.D. often praise her for portraying strong yet relatable female characters, particularly in high-pressure law enforcement settings.
Although she has not accumulated a large number of major awards, her sustained success on a major network series and strong audience reception speak to her impact and talent.
Final Thoughts
Marina Squerciati’s career is a testament to the value of strong training, persistence, and authentic storytelling. From her early days in theater to her defining role on Chicago P.D., she has consistently delivered performances that resonate with audiences. Her portrayal of Kim Burgess has not only defined her career but has also contributed significantly to the success of the Chicago television franchise. As she continues her work in television, Marina Squerciati remains a prominent and respected actress—one whose performances leave a lasting impression and whose career continues to evolve with purpose and integrity.
See Also: Marina Squerciati Net Worth
FAQs:
1. Who is Marina Squerciati?
Marina Squerciati is an American actress best known for playing Kim Burgess on NBC’s Chicago P.D.
2. How old is Marina Squerciati?
She was born on January 30, 1984, and is 42 years old as of 2026.
3. What is Marina Squerciati famous for?
She is famous for her long-running role as Officer-turned-Detective Kim Burgess on Chicago P.D.
4. Is Marina Squerciati married?
Yes, she is married to attorney Eli Kay-Oliphant and has one daughter.
5. Where did Marina Squerciati study acting?
She earned a bachelor’s degree in theater from Northwestern University.