A Shocking Exit That Rocked Firehouse 51
When Chicago Fire Season 6 wrapped up in 2018, fans were left stunned by the departure of Monica Raymund, who played paramedic and firefighter Gabriela Dawson. For six seasons, Dawson had been one of the emotional and narrative pillars of the show. Her chemistry with Jesse Spencer’s Matt Casey, her fierce determination, and her deep commitment to her job made her a fan favorite. So when Monica Raymund announced she wouldn’t return for Season 7, fans had questions—and she had answers.
Monica Raymund Opens Up About Her Decision
Six Seasons of Intensity
Raymund revealed in multiple interviews that her decision wasn’t made lightly. “I was in my sixth year of a six-year contract,” she said in an interview with The Chicago Tribune. “I felt like I was hungry to explore a different world.” The grind of a network drama schedule, which often involves shooting for 10 months a year, was physically and emotionally demanding.
“I wanted to explore other creative avenues,” she said. “I wanted to get back into theater. I wanted to direct. I wanted to produce. There’s only so much you can do when you’re tied up for 10 months out of the year.”
Leaving Dawson with Dignity
Rather than killing off Gabriela Dawson, the show’s writers gave her an exit that allowed her character to move forward—taking a medical relief job in Puerto Rico. It was a respectful and hopeful ending that honored her strength and passion, rather than diminishing it.
How Her Departure Changed the Show
Shifting the Emotional Center
Dawson’s departure left a noticeable gap. The Dawsey (Dawson + Casey) romance had long been one of the show’s emotional backbones. With her gone, Matt Casey’s character underwent a transformation, eventually leading to his own exit in Season 10.
Making Room for New Faces
Raymund’s departure also created space for new characters like Emily Foster (Annie Ilonzeh) and later Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) to join Ambulance 61. These new characters brought fresh dynamics, but many longtime fans continued to compare them to Dawson—evidence of her enduring impact.
Raymund’s Career After Chicago Fire
Finding Creative Freedom
Since leaving Chicago Fire, Raymund has flourished. She starred in the Starz crime drama Hightown, playing Jackie Quiñones, a role that allowed her to delve into darker and more complex territory. She also began working as a director, including directing episodes of Law & Order: SVU and FBI.
“I’ll Never Say Never”
Despite her success outside the One Chicago universe, Raymund has made a few returns as Dawson, most notably in Season 8. “It was lovely to come back. It’s like coming home,” she said. While she has no plans to return permanently, she hasn’t ruled out future cameos.
The Legacy of Gabriela Dawson
Monica Raymund’s Gabriela Dawson remains one of Chicago Fire’s most memorable and beloved characters. Her mix of grit, heart, and integrity helped define the show’s early years. While her absence is still felt, her legacy lives on in the fabric of Firehouse 51.
