When Chicago Fire debuted in 2012, Charlie Barnett’s character, Peter Mills, quickly became a cornerstone of the show. Mills was a young firefighter with big shoes to fill, following the legacy of his late father. As a candidate in Firehouse 51, he started at the bottom, proving his worth with determination and grit. Over three seasons, Mills grew into a beloved character, juggling his professional aspirations and romantic entanglements, particularly his turbulent relationship with Gabby Dawson (Monica Raymund).
Despite his significant role in the show’s early seasons, Barnett’s time on Chicago Fire came to an abrupt end in 2015, leaving both the actor and fans stunned.
Peter Mills: A Journey of Growth and Dedication
Barnett’s portrayal of Peter Mills highlighted the character’s resilience and adaptability. Initially assigned to Truck 81, Mills later joined the elite Rescue Squad 3, led by Lt. Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney). A severe injury temporarily sidelined him, forcing him into a paramedic role on Ambulance 61. However, Mills ultimately returned to the Rescue Squad, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his team.
Beyond his professional growth, Mills added emotional depth to the series. His ill-fated romance with Gabby Dawson added drama and vulnerability to his storyline, making him a well-rounded and relatable character. His journey resonated with fans, solidifying him as one of the show’s most memorable figures.
Barnett Opens Up About His Exit
Barnett appeared in over 60 episodes of Chicago Fire and even crossed over into the One Chicago universe with four appearances on Chicago P.D.. Despite his contributions, Mills was written off in the Season 3 episode, “You Know Where to Find Me.”
In an interview with Digital Spy, Barnett revealed how blindsided he felt by the show’s success and his eventual departure. “I was really sad to be let go. It broke me for quite a long time,” he admitted. Barnett explained that when he joined the cast, he hadn’t anticipated the massive popularity Chicago Fire would achieve. “It was a behemoth that I never really saw coming,” he said.
At the time of his exit, Barnett took to Twitter to express his mixed emotions, writing, “If I had my way, I wouldn’t be leaving, but I can’t deny the time I had was beyond amazing.” His gratitude for the experience was clear, but the pain of leaving was palpable.
Moving Forward: New Roles and New Opportunities
Though leaving Chicago Fire was difficult, Barnett soon found success in other high-profile roles. He joined the casts of critically acclaimed shows like Orange Is the New Black and Russian Doll, where he showcased his range and talent. These projects proved that while his time at Firehouse 51 had ended, his career was just heating up.
For fans, Peter Mills remains a cherished part of Chicago Fire’s legacy. His journey from a rookie firefighter to a seasoned team member left an indelible mark on the series, and Barnett’s heartfelt performance ensured Mills will not be forgotten.
