Aayisha Ruby Gold ’13 Returns to ‘Chicago P.D.’ With Purpose and Presence

Aayisha Ruby Gold ’13. Photo by Brian McConkey Photography. Aayisha Ruby Gold ’13. Photo by Brian McConkey Photography.
Aayisha Ruby Gold performs the title role in the 2017 Red Tape Theatre production of “Hedda Gabler,” for which she received the BTAA/Ira Aldridge Award for Most Promising Actress. Photo by Austin Oie, courtesy of Red Tape Theatre.Aayisha Ruby Gold performs the title role in the 2017 Red Tape Theatre production of “Hedda Gabler,” for which she received the BTAA/Ira Aldridge Award for Most Promising Actress. Photo by Austin Oie, courtesy of Red Tape Theatre.
A scene from Red Tape Theatre’s 2017 production of “Hedda Gabler,” featuring Aayisha Ruby Gold. Photo by Austin Oie, courtesy of Red Tape Theatre.A scene from Red Tape Theatre’s 2017 production of “Hedda Gabler,” featuring Aayisha Ruby Gold. Photo by Austin Oie, courtesy of Red Tape Theatre.
Aayisha Ruby Gold outside her trailer on the set of NBC’s ”Chicago P.D.” Season 13. Photo courtesy of Aayisha Ruby Gold.Aayisha Ruby Gold outside her trailer on the set of NBC’s ”Chicago P.D.” Season 13. Photo courtesy of Aayisha Ruby Gold.
A signed copy of “In the Studio with Joyce Piven,” given to Aayisha Ruby Gold by her mentor Joyce Piven, co-founder of the Piven Theatre Workshop and a legendary figure in Chicago theatre.A signed copy of “In the Studio with Joyce Piven,” given to Aayisha Ruby Gold by her mentor Joyce Piven, co-founder of the Piven Theatre Workshop and a legendary figure in Chicago theatre.
Columbia College Chicago alum and actor Aayisha Ruby Gold ’13 returns to NBC’s “Chicago P.D.” and reflects on the craft, courage, and connection that shape her work.

Ahead of her upcoming appearance on “Chicago P.D.” airing Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, at 9 p.m. on NBC, actor and Columbia College Chicago alum Aayisha Ruby Gold ’13 shares how her training at Columbia built a foundation for her artistry. Gold reflects on mentorship, motherhood, representation, and the power of presence—on set and in life.  

Tell us about your experience on “Chicago P.D.”  
I first appeared in Season 4, Episode 21 as a child advocate, a steady presence bridging law enforcement and vulnerable youth. The role was grounded in compassion and quiet strength, and it allowed me to channel empathy in a deeply fulfilling way.  

Now, in “Chicago P.D.” season 13, episode 6, “Send Me,” I return as a working woman caught in a sudden moment of unraveling. It’s brief but emotionally charged—everything my character thought she controlled starts to slip, and what emerges is raw humanity.   

What was it like working on a major network set?  
Theater taught me to be present and responsive, and that translates beautifully to the screen. On a fast-moving set, everything shifts—your mark, your cue, the rhythm—but when you stay open, something real unfolds.   

What I loved most was the generosity on set. From the director to the crew, there was mutual respect. Even in a short scene, when you show up with full presence, the whole ensemble rises together.  

Did your training at Columbia prepare you for on-screen work?  
Absolutely. Columbia gave me a foundation in technique, character study, and literature. I learned to listen between the lines, to stay curious and honest. Many professors were working actors, which was so inspiring—they didn’t just teach the craft. They embodied it.  

I also trained with Joyce Piven (co-founder of the Piven Theatre Workshop and mother of actor and 2007 Columbia College Chicago Impact Award winner Jeremy Piven), my beloved mentor, who passed away in January 2025. She taught me to begin with the authentic self—to peel back the layers and rediscover the core of who I am. Starting from truth allows me to create a character that feels lived-in and real, and to connect truthfully with my scene partners.   

What moment at Columbia felt most formative for your career?  
In 2017, I performed “Hedda Gabler” at Red Tape Theatre and received the BTAA/Ira Aldridge Award for Most Promising Actress. The award—founded by a Columbia alum and often hosted on Columbia’s campus—made the moment feel full circle.   

How has motherhood shaped your acting?  
Motherhood has deepened my emotional range. It’s taught me to lead with empathy, to find clarity in silence, and to carry strength with softness. I bring all of that to my work now. My mother, Jackie, made my journey possible through her resilience. Her grace, humor, and quiet wisdom continue to guide me.  

Which roles or moments have most shaped how you see yourself—and the power of representation—in theatre?  
Performing as Hedda in “Hedda Gabler” and Sasha in “Ivanov” were turning points. I learned what it means to be the blueprint—there were no women who looked like me in those roles, no reference point to follow. So I created one. It taught me that authenticity is its own quiet rebellion—by showing up fully as myself, I make space for others to see themselves, too.  

What advice would you give to Columbia students?  
Take a moment to be still. Get clear on your “why.” Write it down. Surround yourself with people who inspire you—build your village. Seek mentors who see you and believe in your potential before you do. 

Study. Take risks. And take care of yourself. The artist behind the actor matters. You will hear “no,” but say “yes” to yourself and to the work anyway. Most of all, believe. Even when it seems impossible, believe in yourself.  

Is there a dream role or project you hope to pursue?  
I’d love to play a warrior woman—someone grounded in purpose—or a queen in a rich period piece. Sci-fi calls to me, too—something imaginative, where both the mind and heart are challenged.  

Any parting reflections?  
Joyce Piven used to say, “You don’t finish the work—you return to it.” Every rehearsal, every take is a return; a chance to go deeper. It’s never about perfection; it’s about presence. So when the moment comes and someone asks, “Who will go?” my answer is, “Send me.” Because readiness isn’t a feeling. It’s a choice.

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