From the pilot episode, she made a lasting impression with her casual yet powerful coming-out scene, immediately earning the respect and admiration of her Firehouse 51 family and viewers alike.
Leslie Shay, portrayed by Lauren German, was a beloved and integral character on Chicago Fire during its first two seasons. As a paramedic with Ambulance 61, Shay quickly became a fan favorite for her wit, confidence, and emotional depth.
From the pilot episode, she made a lasting impression with her casual yet powerful coming-out scene, immediately earning the respect and admiration of her Firehouse 51 family and viewers alike.
Shay’s close relationships with her colleagues were central to her storyline. Her bond with Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) was especially significant — a deep, platonic friendship built on mutual trust, emotional support, and unwavering loyalty.
Together, they even explored starting a family, with Shay asking Severide to father her child in a heartfelt moment that showcased their unique connection.
Though their attempt at parenthood ultimately fell apart, it solidified their status as one of the show’s most compelling duos.
Her personal life was complicated by a tumultuous relationship with her ex-girlfriend Clarice (Shiri Appleby). When Clarice, pregnant and trapped in a failing marriage, reappeared, it reignited old feelings and caused emotional turmoil for Shay.
Despite a brief reconciliation, Clarice left Shay once more, choosing to move to New York with her child’s father — leaving Shay heartbroken and longing for the family she almost had.
Professionally, Shay’s partnership with Gabriela Dawson (Monica Raymund) was dynamic and occasionally tense.
The two paramedics shared a deep friendship, but their bond was tested in Season 2 after a traumatic call involving a patient’s suicide.
Their working relationship grew strained, especially as Dawson pursued firefighting, further pulling her away from Shay and Ambulance 61.
The most devastating moment in Shay’s storyline — and one of the most heartbreaking in the entire Chicago Fire series — came at the end of Season 2. While battling a blaze connected to a larger arson plot, a sudden explosion trapped the squad inside.
Leslie Shay was fatally injured when a pipe struck her head, leading to her tragic death in the Season 3 premiere. Dawson’s desperate attempt to save her failed, leaving Firehouse 51 shattered by the loss.
Shay’s death had a profound impact on her team and the show’s fans. Firehouse 51 honored her memory with a dedicated ambulance and an emotional memorial service.
Dawson, reflecting on their loss, captured what Shay meant to everyone:
“Shay would want us to be better. She would want us to lean on each other.”
Leslie Shay’s legacy endured long after her final episode, marking her as one of the most memorable and impactful characters in Chicago Fire history.
