For six seasons, Monica Raymund captivated Chicago Fire fans as Gabby Dawson, the skilled paramedic and devoted wife of Captain Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer). Since the series debuted in 2012, Gabby’s presence brought emotional depth to the firehouse dynamics and the romantic chemistry of the beloved “Dawsey” duo. However, Raymund’s sudden exit at the start of Season 7 in 2018 left fans shocked and searching for answers.
Why Did Gabby Leave Chicago?
On the show, Gabby Dawson left her life in Chicago to join hurricane relief efforts in Puerto Rico, marking a selfless and heartfelt farewell. But off-screen, Monica Raymund’s departure had more to do with her personal and professional aspirations than her character’s storyline.
After six seasons on Chicago Fire, Raymund’s contract came to an end. This prompted her to reflect on her career and explore new creative opportunities. Speaking about her decision, the actress shared on social media:
“It’s time to move on to the next chapter of life. I knew my six-year contract was coming to an end, and I felt hungry to explore a different role, a different story. I wanted to explore a different world.”
Additionally, Raymund revealed that her time in Chicago had been transformative, but she was ready to settle elsewhere:
“I had been in Chicago for five years and, personally, I was ready to create my home and plant some roots in Los Angeles.”
The actress emphasized that the choice wasn’t easy, as she cherished her time on the show:
“It feels surreal. I gave six years of my life to that show and created a family there. I miss them terribly. But I have the opportunity to start the next chapter of my life, and I’m excited about it.”
A Career Beyond Chicago Fire
Monica Raymund wasted no time forging her new path. In May 2020, she took on the lead role of Jackie Quiñones, a federal agent in the gritty Starz crime drama Hightown. The series allowed Raymund to flex her acting chops in a completely different environment, further solidifying her versatility as an actress.
Her departure from Chicago Fire highlighted her desire to take risks and explore diverse opportunities in her craft:
“It’s wonderful to have job security and delve into a story over a long period, but sometimes you have to take risks to diversify your opportunities.”
Could Gabby Dawson Return?
While Gabby’s departure was bittersweet, Raymund has left the door open for a possible return to Chicago Fire. When asked about reprising her role, she responded:
“I don’t know. I think it’s an open question. But there’s always an open door with Gabby, and I think that’s how it should be.”
This statement has given fans hope that they might see Dawson again, even if only for a guest appearance. For now, though, Raymund is focused on new challenges and roles that push her boundaries.
The Legacy of Gabby Dawson
Though her time on Chicago Fire has ended (at least for now), Gabby Dawson remains a cherished character in the One Chicago universe. Her compassion, strength, and determination made her a standout presence on the show, and her influence continues to resonate with fans and characters alike.
Whether or not she returns, Monica Raymund’s portrayal of Gabby Dawson left an indelible mark on the series. Her journey is a reminder of the value of risk-taking and the importance of embracing new opportunities.
