The One Chicago universe—comprising Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire, and Chicago Med—has long been a staple for fans of high-stakes drama and complex character arcs. Yet, over the years, viewers have been left reeling as beloved characters made unexpected exits, leaving behind unanswered questions and emotional voids. Let’s delve into seven of the most heart-wrenching departures that continue to haunt fans, uncovering the real reasons behind these exits.
7. Tracy Spiridakos (Hailey Upton, Chicago P.D.)
Introduced in Season 4 and promoted to series regular in Season 5, Tracy Spiridakos’ portrayal of Detective Hailey Upton quickly became a fan favorite. Her on-screen chemistry with Jesse Lee Soffer’s Jay Halstead added depth to the series.
However, after seven years, Spiridakos decided to leave, citing a desire to explore new opportunities and challenges beyond the show. She expressed that it was a difficult decision, given her close bonds with the cast and crew .
6. Jesse Lee Soffer (Jay Halstead, Chicago P.D.)
As one of the original cast members, Jesse Lee Soffer’s departure in Season 10 shocked many.
Soffer revealed that he felt it was time to move on and explore other aspects of his career, including directing. He even returned to direct an episode after his exit, showcasing his continued connection to the series .
5. Monica Raymund (Gabriela Dawson, Chicago Fire)
Monica Raymund’s Gabriela Dawson was a cornerstone of Chicago Fire for six seasons.
Her departure in Season 6 left fans heartbroken. Raymund explained that she felt it was time to move on and explore new opportunities, despite the emotional difficulty of leaving a show that had become like family to her .
4. Sophia Bush (Erin Lindsay, Chicago P.D.)
Sophia Bush’s exit after Season 4 was surrounded by controversy.
She later revealed that she left due to challenging working conditions on set, which took a toll on her well-being. Bush emphasized the importance of advocating for oneself, even in difficult situations .
3. Jon Seda (Antonio Dawson, Chicago P.D.)
Jon Seda’s Antonio Dawson was a fan favorite, appearing across multiple shows in the One Chicago franchise.
His departure in Season 6 was reportedly due to creative reasons, as the writers felt they had taken his character as far as they could .
2. Lauren German (Leslie Shay, Chicago Fire)
Lauren German’s Leslie Shay was tragically killed off in the Season 3 premiere of Chicago Fire. The decision was made to have a significant impact on the show’s narrative, affecting all characters deeply.
German’s departure was a creative choice by the producers to drive the story forward .
1. Charlie Barnett (Peter Mills, Chicago Fire)
Charlie Barnett’s Peter Mills left Chicago Fire in Season 3 to be with his family and run their restaurant. Barnett later expressed that while he was grateful for the experience, he understood the decision was made to keep the story dynamic and introduce new characters .
