In 1995 , Delaney began portraying the role of '' NYPD Blue '' Detective Diane Russell . Originally slated for only four episodes , the role became permanent after her character 's relationship with Detective Bobby Simone ( Jimmy Smits ) became a hit with viewers . In this role , she was nominated three times for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series , winning at the 1997 Emmy Awards
1997 Emmy Awards
49th Primetime Emmy Awards
Kim Delaney