After more than a decade on the air, NBC’s Chicago Fire continues to ignite fan passion with each emotional rescue, fiery romance, and shocking twist. But what keeps viewers truly hooked isn’t just the action — it’s the people who’ve worn the uniform at Firehouse 51. And as any loyal fan knows, saying goodbye has become an all-too-familiar part of the journey.
From tearful send-offs to behind-the-scenes choices, here’s a look at the most memorable exits in Chicago Fire history — and the real reasons behind them.
Eamonn Walker as Chief Wallace Boden
Final episode: Season 12, Episode 13 (“Never Say Goodbye”)
After anchoring the series since day one, Eamonn Walker is stepping down as a series regular. Though fans will miss his commanding presence as Chief Boden, the good news is he’ll continue to appear in a recurring role. In a moving promo, Severide tells him, “You made 51 a family, Chief.” Enough said.
Kara Killmer as Sylvie Brett
Exit: February 2024
Killmer’s Brett tied the knot with longtime love Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer) and left Chicago for Oregon — a bittersweet but fitting ending. “It was the most natural conclusion for her arc,” Killmer told PEOPLE. Fans agree — it was the wedding we all needed.
Alberto Rosende as Blake Gallo
Exit: Season 12 Premiere
After four seasons, Gallo left the city for a fresh start in Michigan with newfound family. “It wasn’t easy,” Rosende shared, “but the story I got to tell made me proud.” Gallo’s energy and heart will be sorely missed.
Jesse Spencer as Matt Casey
Exit: Season 10, Episode 200
A cornerstone of the series, Spencer left to focus on family and future goals. “It was time,” he said simply. Casey has returned for key moments — including Brett’s wedding — but his absence still feels deeply personal for fans.
Adriyan Rae as Gianna Mackey
Exit: End of Season 9
Her departure was quiet and sudden. “She left on great terms,” said showrunner Derek Haas, hinting at possible returns. Rae has since starred in The Game on Paramount+.
Annie Ilonzeh as Emily Foster
Exit: Season 8
Foster returned to med school after realizing her true calling. Since then, Ilonzeh has taken on a wide variety of roles, from Peppermint to Vicious Affair.
Yuriy Sardarov as Otis (Brian Zvoncek)
Exit: Season 8 Premiere
Otis’s death remains one of the most heartbreaking in the show’s history. Sardarov penned a moving farewell poem, and his legacy lives on through a statue outside 51 — and Cruz’s son, named in his honor.
Monica Raymund as Gabriela Dawson
Exit: End of Season 6 (Recurring guest in Season 8)
Dawson left to do humanitarian work in Puerto Rico. Her guest appearance in Season 8 rekindled the Dawsey flame, if only briefly. Since then, Raymund has gone behind the camera, directing episodes for the Law & Order and FBI franchises.
Steven R. McQueen as Jimmy Borelli
Exit: Early Season 5
Borelli’s run ended with a career-ending injury. Co-creator Michael Brandt praised McQueen’s potential, saying he “deserves to be a bigger part on a show.” And he’s certainly continued to shine in TV movies.
Dora Madison Burge as Chili (Jessica Chilton)
Exit: Mid-Season 4
After her sister’s death, Chili spiraled and was ultimately let go. It was a tough call, showrunner Matt Olmstead admitted. Burge has since gone on to appear in What Would Diplo Do?
Charlie Barnett as Peter Mills
Exit: Season 3
Mills’ departure hit hard, especially after his early romance with Dawson. Barnett called it “heartbreaking,” but acknowledged it was ultimately a “blessing in disguise.” He’s since found success on Netflix hits like Russian Doll and YOU.
Lauren German as Leslie Shay
Exit: Season 3 Premiere
Shay’s shocking death was the first major gut-punch for viewers. “You have to be unsentimental,” Olmstead said. Fans never forgot her — and neither did Firehouse 51, where her name remains etched on Ambulance 61.
Teri Reeves as Dr. Hallie Thomas
Exit: Season 1
Hallie’s tragic murder shook Matt Casey to his core. Though her run was brief, her impact lingered, helping to shape Casey’s personal and professional life.
Final Thoughts:
As Chicago Fire heads into its next chapter, one thing’s for sure — Firehouse 51’s past heroes are never forgotten. Through statues, stories, and emotional callbacks, their legacy burns brighter than ever.
