Chicago Fire, one of the popular series in Dick Wolf’s One Chicago franchise, is gearing up for its 12th season in 2024, but the upcoming season will mark a significant cast change. While fans are excited about the confirmed return of Taylor Kinney, who plays Lieutenant Kelly Severide, the show will bid farewell to one of its core characters: Paramedic Sylvie Brett, portrayed by Kara Killmer.
Kara Killmer, who joined the show in season 3, has been a fan-favorite for nearly a decade. Her character brought stability and emotional depth to the fire station following the tragic death of Leslie Shay at the end of season 2. Killmer’s portrayal of Sylvie Brett has spanned 193 episodes, making her departure a major shift for the Chicago Fire cast.
Kara Killmer’s Departure from Chicago Fire
According to TVLine, Killmer will return for season 12, but this will be her final season on Chicago Fire. Details surrounding her exit remain unclear, including how her character’s story will wrap up. However, her return ensures that Sylvie Brett will get a proper sendoff, giving writers the chance to craft a fitting farewell.
This marks a significant change for the show, which has relied on the steady presence of Killmer’s character over the years. As Brett, she’s been involved in various dramatic storylines, from navigating personal relationships to saving lives as a paramedic. Season 12 is expected to close Brett’s chapter in a way that honors her years of service in the One Chicago universe.
What’s Next for Kara Killmer?
As of now, Kara Killmer has no officially announced projects after her time on Chicago Fire. Since her debut in 2014, her career has been closely tied to the One Chicago franchise, where she also made appearances on Chicago Med and Chicago P.D.. The last time she took on a role outside the franchise was in 2019, leaving her next steps in the industry open to speculation.
It’s possible that Killmer is looking for new opportunities outside the familiar environment of Chicago Fire, especially after being in the same role for nearly 10 years. Given the recent conclusion of the 2023 actors strike, she may have upcoming projects that have not yet been publicly revealed. Fans will be eager to see what’s in store for Killmer as she ventures into the next phase of her career.
Severide’s Return Brings Change
While fans will be saying goodbye to Sylvie Brett, they can also celebrate the return of Taylor Kinney’s character, Kelly Severide. Severide, who took a leave from the show earlier in season 11, is confirmed to be back in action for season 12. His return promises to bring excitement, but also underscores the major shakeup happening in the Chicago Fire cast as Brett’s departure approaches.
With the return of one beloved character and the exit of another, Chicago Fire season 12 is shaping up to be an emotional rollercoaster for fans. The writers have the opportunity to craft a memorable final arc for Brett, while reintroducing Severide into the fold after his absence.
A New Chapter for Chicago Fire
As Chicago Fire moves into its 12th season, it faces both continuity and change. The departure of Kara Killmer will undoubtedly leave a hole in the dynamic of Firehouse 51, but the return of Taylor Kinney ensures there will still be familiar faces anchoring the series.
For fans, the question now is how Sylvie Brett’s story will conclude, and what lies ahead for both the character and the actress who brought her to life for so long. Season 12 will be one to watch closely, as it navigates these significant cast changes while keeping the heart and soul of Chicago Fire intact.
