When the landmark Chicago Fire Season 10 premiere lit up screens, longtime fans were thrilled to see Sylvie Brett back in action. But behind the beloved paramedic is Kara Killmer — a Texas native with small-town roots, big-city success, and a secret fantasy role that might surprise even her biggest admirers.
Growing Up a Ham in Fort Worth
Before NBC’s hit drama turned her into a household name, Killmer was just a spirited kid in Crowley, Texas. “I was definitely a ham,” she laughs. Her mother, intent on instilling confidence in her three kids, signed them up for local theater programs — not necessarily to turn them into actors, but to make sure they could stand up and deliver in front of a crowd without fear.
Her first big moment? Playing one of Santa’s elves in a Casa Mañana production of Rudolph back in the late ’90s. From there, the stage became her second home. She vividly recalls walking into Bass Hall in downtown Fort Worth, gazing at its elegant ceilings and feeling completely transported. “It’s the most grand, beautiful place you’ve seen,” she says. “I’ve probably spent more time at concerts looking at the ceiling than paying attention to the shows.”
That awe turned into ambition when she landed a small part in The Music Man as a freshman in high school. “That’s when I caught the bug,” Killmer admits.
From Crowley High to Firehouse 51
After graduating from Baylor University (sorry, Horned Frogs), Killmer eventually found herself auditioning for television — and struck gold with Chicago Fire. Joining in Season 3, she’s now heading into her eighth consecutive season as Sylvie Brett, the resilient paramedic who’s seen it all.
“I love Sylvie because she’s versatile,” Killmer says. “She gets heavy drama, but also humor and romance. Not all characters get that balance. After nearly a decade, that keeps it fresh.”
And speaking of romance — yes, Brett has had her share of memorable love stories on-screen. “So much romance,” Killmer jokes with a knowing smile.
Season 10 and Big Changes Ahead
Without spoiling too much, Killmer teases a season full of evolution. “There are a lot of changes coming to the house,” she explains. “[Stella] Kidd is stepping into leadership, and Boden may be moving up. Everyone’s figuring out where they belong. It’s about growth — for the firehouse and for the characters.”
The Dream Gig She’d Drop Everything For
So what would make Killmer take a break from the busy Chicago set? Two words: Middle Earth.
“I saw that there’s a new Lord of the Rings series,” she gushes. “Oh my gosh, I would die. Even if they just needed an elf to die in one scene — sign me up! I’ll take out the trash on that show.”
If that fantasy role doesn’t happen, she has another dream job in mind: “A food critic on a TV show. Eat all day? Yes, please.”
Home Is Where the Heart (and Freeze Pops) Is
Despite her Hollywood success, Killmer remains deeply connected to her Texas roots. “My ideal birthday? Hanging out at my mom’s house, sitting by the pool, eating those little freeze pops you buy in packs of 50,” she laughs. She makes it home twice a year — once in summer, once for Christmas. “It’s never enough. Texas deserves more visits.”
Her upbringing also gave her a profound sense of community. She recalls the 1999 tragedy at Wedgwood Baptist Church, where her brother was present when a gunman opened fire. Fourteen people were shot, but the way local churches came together left a lasting impression. “Even in the darkest moments, I saw how connection and support mattered most,” she says. “That shaped who I am — and what I look for wherever life takes me.”
The Bottom Line
From Bass Hall ceilings to Firehouse 51, Kara Killmer’s journey is a story of talent, resilience, and heart. She’s living her dream — but she’s not done dreaming yet. If Amazon Studios needs an elf, they know who to call.
