For more than a decade, Kara Killmer was a familiar face to fans of NBC’s Chicago Fire, bringing warmth, heart, and resilience to her role as paramedic Sylvie Brett. Her exit in Season 12 marked the end of an era — and while Brett’s story concluded on a hopeful note, viewers were left wondering what would come next for the actress behind the beloved character.
Now, we finally have the answer.
A Farewell to Firehouse 51
Killmer first joined Chicago Fire in Season 3, stepping into the void left after the shocking death of Leslie Shay (Lauren German). Over time, Sylvie Brett carved out her own legacy on Ambulance 61, becoming not just a dependable paramedic but also a central part of the show’s emotional core.
Her Season 12 sendoff was bittersweet: in Episode 6, Brett tied the knot with Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer) in a long-awaited wedding before moving to Portland with him. Fans were grateful that her story ended with happiness instead of heartbreak, but her absence has been deeply felt on the series.
A Hollywood Pivot
According to Variety, Killmer has landed her first major project since leaving the One Chicago universe. She’s set to portray Lady Julia in Jimmy, the upcoming biopic about legendary actor James Stewart.
Directed by Aaron Burns with a script by Justin Strawhand, Jimmy will focus on Stewart’s life in the 1940s, spotlighting his World War II military service and his triumphant Hollywood comeback with It’s a Wonderful Life.
Filming is already underway in West Cork, Ireland, with Stewart’s daughter, Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, attached as an executive producer — ensuring the story honors both the actor’s legacy and his family’s perspective.
An All-Star Cast
Killmer will join a star-studded ensemble led by Riverdale’s KJ Apa as James Stewart. The cast also includes Christopher McDonald as Lionel Barrymore, Neal McDonough as Stewart’s father, Rob Riggle as U.S. Army Colonel Terrill, and Jemma Donovan as Ginger Rogers. Other names rounding out the impressive roster are Jason Alexander, Sarah Drew, Max Casella, Julian Works, and Jen Lilley.
What’s Next
While Jimmy doesn’t yet have an official release date, a theatrical debut is tentatively planned for November 2026. Until then, fans can revisit Killmer’s journey as Brett by streaming Seasons 3 through 12 of Chicago Fire on Peacock.
And for those keeping up with Firehouse 51, Chicago Fire Season 14 premieres Wednesday, October 1, at 9/8c on NBC — marking the first full season without Killmer’s Brett.
It may be the end of an era in the Windy City, but for Kara Killmer, it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter on the big screen.
