On Chicago Fire, Gabriela Dawson (Monica Raymund) and Sylvie Brett (Kara Killmer) weren’t just partners in the ambulance—they were roommates and close confidants. Off-screen, their bond seemed just as strong, as evidenced by the many behind-the-scenes glimpses shared with fans, particularly through Kara Killmer’s Instagram.
Although Monica Raymund left the show after Season 6 to explore new opportunities, her time with Killmer left a lasting impression. Their friendship, captured in candid photos and heartfelt posts, gave fans a sense of their camaraderie and made them one of One Chicago’s favorite off-screen duos.
The Bond Between Killmer and Raymund on Set
During their time on Chicago Fire, Killmer and Raymund clearly enjoyed each other’s company. Killmer often documented their antics on Instagram, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at their friendship. From recreating Beyoncé’s Formation poses with castmate Eamonn Walker to playful moments like Raymund channeling her inner Hermione Granger, their posts radiated fun and closeness.
Killmer also celebrated Raymund’s real-life inspiration, frequently showing admiration for the paramedics whose stories shaped their on-screen personas. When Raymund announced her departure from the series in 2018, Killmer didn’t shy away from expressing her affection for her co-star. On Raymund’s birthday that year, Killmer posted a touching tribute, writing, “What are we going to do today, Brain? … Celebrate Monica Raymund!”
Did Distance Cool Their Friendship?
While the bond between Killmer and Raymund was undeniable during their shared time on the show, life after Chicago Fire seems to have taken them on different paths. Raymund left to pursue her dreams in Los Angeles, explaining that she wanted to “create a new chapter” for herself. Meanwhile, Killmer remained in Chicago, continuing her role on the series and juggling its demanding 12-to-16-hour workdays.
Killmer once remarked in an interview that spending so much time together on set naturally fostered friendships among castmates, especially among the show’s leading women, including Miranda Rae Mayo. However, as careers and personal lives diverged, it seems their closeness may have faded.
Despite the physical distance and their busy schedules, fans still hold out hope that the two could reconnect—whether in real life or on screen.
Where Are They Now?
Monica Raymund has kept busy since leaving Chicago Fire. She took on the lead role in the Starz series Hightown, earning critical acclaim for her performance, and has stepped behind the camera to direct episodes of Dexter: Original Sin and other projects.
Kara Killmer, on the other hand, departed Chicago Fire in early 2024, telling The Hollywood Reporter she was exploring new opportunities. She expressed her willingness to return to One Chicago someday, leaving fans with a glimmer of hope for a Brett and Dawson reunion.
A Future Reunion?
The idea of Killmer and Raymund collaborating again—whether on Chicago Fire or another project—excites fans who loved their on-screen partnership and off-screen camaraderie. While life has taken them in different directions, their history and mutual admiration remain undeniable.
For now, fans can relive their favorite Brett-Dawson moments while keeping their fingers crossed for a future reunion, either in the One Chicago universe or elsewhere.
