Who is Yara Martinez? All About Actress Behind Memorable Chicago P.D. Guest Role

It has been a year since Chicago P.D. viewers last saw Yara Martinez as Gloria Perez, a role that ended in heartbreak and tragedy. The Puerto Rican actress, known for Bull and Jane the Virgin, brought depth to Gloria’s complex storyline that began with emotional vulnerability and ended in sacrifice.

Gloria’s relationship with Officer Torres began when he went undercover to expose her husband, Rafael, a drug kingpin. Abused and desperate to escape, Gloria was caught stealing from Rafael. Torres connected with her emotionally and helped her become a confidential informant for the CPD. However, their professional bond turned romantic, crossing ethical boundaries and endangering Torres’s career.

After Rafael’s death—caused by Gloria in self-defense—the two parted ways. In season 12, Gloria reappeared, now working for a new cartel, which horrified Torres. When he infiltrated the group, he was forced to confess their past affair. The episode Penance brought them face-to-face again, as Torres tried to save her from a cartel-ordered hit. During the fight, Gloria was shot while protecting Torres and died in his arms, saying, “We’re the same.” Deputy Chief Reid later exploited their affair to target Voight’s team.

Season 13 follows Voight reuniting his Intelligence Unit, with Torres returning to duty alongside Burgess and new recruit Detective Imani. In episode 2, Torres helps track down a kidnapped family friend, but the mission ends tragically, highlighting racial and political undertones.

Born in August 1979 and raised in Miami, Yara Martinez trained in ballet for ten years under the influence of her grandniece, ballerina Alicia Alonso. She began acting in 2001 with Sex and the City and later appeared in Mari Reynosa. Her breakout came with The Hitcher, leading to roles in Alpha House, The Tick, Deputy, Bull, True Detective, and Jane the Virgin.

Martinez’s portrayal of Gloria Perez left an emotional mark on Chicago P.D., showing a woman torn between survival, love, and loyalty. New episodes of the show air every Wednesday on NBC.

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