For over a decade, Kara Killmer was a familiar and beloved face on primetime television. As the compassionate, steadfast paramedic Sylvie Brett on NBC’s hit series Chicago Fire, she became a central figure in the hearts of millions of viewers. Her journey from a nervous newcomer to the head of Ambulance 61 was a testament to her character’s strength and resilience. When she made her emotional exit from Firehouse 51 in Season 12 to start a new life with her on-screen husband, Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer), fans were left wondering what was next for the talented actress.
While some speculated she might take on a role in another modern-day procedural or a network drama, the announcement of her next project came as a complete and utter surprise. Kara Killmer’s shocking new role is a far cry from the sirens and high-stakes rescues of her past, proving that she is ready to take on a completely different kind of challenge.
The Bittersweet Goodbye to Firehouse 51
Kara Killmer’s departure from Chicago Fire was a particularly emotional one for fans. Unlike many other character exits that involved tragic deaths or abrupt relocations, Sylvie Brett’s farewell was a poignant and satisfying conclusion to a long-running storyline. After years of a tumultuous, on-again, off-again relationship with Jesse Spencer’s character, Matthew Casey, the two finally got their happy ending. They got married in a beautiful ceremony, and Brett moved with Casey to Portland, Oregon, to begin their life together.
In interviews following her exit, Killmer spoke fondly of her decade-long run on the show. She expressed gratitude for the experience, the cast, and the opportunity to portray a first responder. She noted that Sylvie Brett’s character arc had come full circle, beginning as a jilted bride and ending with her finding true love and building a family. This sense of finality, while sad, felt earned and left the door open for Killmer to explore other creative avenues.
However, the question remained: what kind of role would an actress so closely associated with a contemporary procedural take on next?
A Complete 180: From Paramedic to Period Piece
No one could have predicted the direction Kara Killmer’s career would take. After a quiet period following her departure, it was announced that she has landed a major role in a high-profile biopic.
Kara Killmer has joined the cast of the upcoming film Jimmy, a biopic about the life of legendary Hollywood actor James “Jimmy” Stewart. In this new project, she will portray Lady Julia, a role that is a world away from the uniforms and gritty reality of Chicago Fire.
This is a major departure for Killmer, showcasing her range and willingness to step out of her comfort zone. A biographical film set in the 1940s demands a different kind of performance—one focused on historical accuracy, period-specific mannerisms, and a nuanced understanding of a bygone era. Her new role is not a quick guest spot or a return to the same type of show; it is a full-fledged commitment to a film that will be a meticulous recreation of a pivotal time in Hollywood history.
The film, which is being shot in West Cork, Ireland, stars KJ Apa (Riverdale) in the leading role as James Stewart. The cast is filled with other notable actors, and the film is set to explore Stewart’s life during the 1940s, including his military service in WWII and his iconic postwar comeback with It’s a Wonderful Life. For Killmer to be cast in a significant role in such a project is a testament to her talent and a clear signal that she is seeking out roles that challenge her as an artist.
The Fan and Industry Reaction
The news of Kara Killmer’s new role was met with a mixture of shock and excitement from fans. On social media, the initial reaction was one of surprise. Many fans had joked about her returning to a spin-off or a crossover with Chicago P.D. or Chicago Med, but no one had envisioned her in a period piece. The unexpected nature of the announcement created a wave of buzz online, as fans expressed their delight in seeing her take on such a different role.
The industry reaction has also been very positive. It’s a strategic and smart career move for Killmer. After being a series regular on a network procedural for a decade, it’s easy for actors to become typecast. By choosing a role in an independent biopic with a strong ensemble cast, Killmer is demonstrating her versatility and signaling to the industry that she is capable of more than just primetime drama. This role could open up a whole new realm of opportunities for her in both film and television.
What Does the Future Hold?
With filming for Jimmy now underway and a potential theatrical release in late 2026, Kara Killmer’s fans will have to wait a little longer to see her in action. But the wait is well worth it. Her new role is a fascinating and unexpected pivot in her career, proving that she is an actress who is not afraid to take risks and challenge herself creatively.
While she has stated that the door is “wide open” for a possible return to Chicago Fire for guest appearances down the line, her focus now is clearly on new and exciting projects. Her departure from Firehouse 51 may have been the end of an era for Sylvie Brett, but it is just the beginning of a new chapter for Kara Killmer. Her journey from the fast-paced, contemporary world of first responders to the elegant, historic landscape of classic Hollywood is a compelling one, and fans will be eagerly watching to see what she does next.
