Change is inevitable in television, but for fans of Chicago Fire, 2024 delivered more heartbreak than most years. The long-running drama saw a series of major character departures that left viewers shocked, puzzled, and, in many cases, deeply frustrated. Whether the exits were driven by actor decisions or creative choices, each one left a significant void in Firehouse 51.
As the year draws to a close, let’s revisit the five actor exits from Chicago Fire that still have fans feeling salty—starting with a farewell that, while bittersweet, gave us some closure.
5. Kara Killmer as Sylvie Brett
Kara Killmer’s departure as Sylvie Brett was a tough pill to swallow, but at least the writers gave her a graceful exit. In Season 12, Brett’s storyline built up to a heartfelt farewell, culminating in a happy ending for her and Matt Casey. Fans were able to savor Brett’s presence for a few final episodes before she left, and her departure was one of the most well-crafted in the show’s history.
What stings, however, is simply the absence of Brett. As a beloved member of Firehouse 51, her dynamic with the team was irreplaceable. Even with the satisfying sendoff, the firehouse feels a little emptier without her.
4. Rome Flynn as Derrick Gibson
Rome Flynn’s Derrick Gibson was an exciting addition to Chicago Fire, and fans were thrilled when his casting was announced. Flynn is a powerhouse actor who could have added depth to the ensemble. Unfortunately, his character was never fully realized.
Gibson’s exit was sudden and baffling. The writers introduced a prescription drug problem out of nowhere, leading to his decision to leave Firehouse 51 for treatment. While the storyline was emotionally impactful, it felt like wasted potential. Flynn’s talent deserved more, and fans were left wondering what could have been if Gibson had been given a proper arc.
3. Michael Bradway as Jack Damon
Jack Damon, portrayed by Michael Bradway, had one of the most intriguing introductions in Season 12. As the secret half-brother of Kelly Severide, Damon’s arrival promised to shake up the dynamics at Firehouse 51. Fans eagerly anticipated a storyline where Severide could mentor his newly discovered sibling.
Instead, the writers took a different route, transforming Damon into a cocky troublemaker who clashed with the team. His eventual departure felt rushed and underwhelming, leaving viewers frustrated at the squandered opportunity to explore such a compelling relationship. The potential for drama, growth, and heartfelt moments was immense, making this exit one of the year’s biggest disappointments.
2. Alberto Rosende as Blake Gallo
Alberto Rosende’s Blake Gallo had become a fan favorite, making his abrupt exit even harder to accept. Rosende’s departure in Season 12 was handled with minimal fanfare, as his character made a brief appearance before leaving town to move to Michigan.
While it’s understandable that scheduling conflicts influenced this rushed goodbye, fans couldn’t help but feel let down. Gallo’s central role in Firehouse 51 and his relationships with the team deserved a more meaningful conclusion. The door remains open for a potential return, but for now, his sudden absence leaves a void that’s hard to fill.
1. Eamonn Walker as Chief Wallace Boden
Without question, the most heart-wrenching departure of 2024 was Eamonn Walker’s exit as Chief Wallace Boden. As a cornerstone of Chicago Fire since its inception, Boden was the heart and soul of Firehouse 51.
In Season 12, Boden’s promotion to Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Fire Department required him to step away from his role at 51. While it was teased that he’d appear in a recurring capacity, fans have yet to see him in Season 13, making his absence all the more painful.
Walker’s departure marked the end of an era for Chicago Fire, and the lack of Boden’s presence this season has left fans feeling not just salty, but deeply nostalgic for the character who embodied leadership, strength, and compassion.
Final Thoughts
In a show like Chicago Fire, change is inevitable, but 2024 delivered more goodbyes than fans were ready for. From wasted potential to underwhelming exits, each departure left a unique mark on Firehouse 51. Here’s hoping the coming seasons bring some much-needed reunions or at least fill the void left by these unforgettable characters.
