“I Never Close the Door”: Monica Raymund Teases Return to Chicago Fire After Jesse Spencer Exit
Gabby Dawson could be heading back to Firehouse 51—here’s what the actress just revealed
A Legacy That Still Burns Bright
It’s been years since Monica Raymund said goodbye to Chicago Fire, but her role as Gabriela Dawson remains one of the most iconic in the One Chicago universe. And now, the actress has made it clear: Gabby might not be gone for good.
In a recent interview with Deadline, Raymund spoke candidly about the exit of her on-screen husband Jesse Spencer (Matt Casey) and hinted that the door remains wide open for her return to the NBC hit.
“I never close the door on Gabriela Dawson,” Raymund said. “The door is always open.”

A History of Guest Appearances
Gabby was last seen in guest appearances during Seasons 7 and 8, after leaving the main cast at the end of Season 6. She was even slated to return in Season 9, but COVID restrictions ultimately blocked that comeback.
Still, fans never stopped hoping. And now, with Jesse Spencer having recently left the show—though he teased a possible return himself—the idea of Gabby reappearing is back on the table.
Raymund’s comments come as viewers continue to process Casey’s emotional departure. The October 20 episode marked his final appearance as a series regular after nearly a decade. Spencer mentioned Casey was “leaving for three years,” but cheekily added, “is he?”—clearly leaving the door cracked open.
That same ambiguity now surrounds Gabby.
Raymund Is Open—and So Are the Writers
Raymund expressed her love for Chicago Fire showrunner Derek Haas, saying, “He’s my boy.” The mutual respect suggests that her return isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s a real possibility.
She added:
“I never say no to an opportunity to tell stories.”
The comment not only reassures longtime fans, but also sends a clear message to writers and producers: Gabby Dawson’s story isn’t finished.
Could Gabby and Casey Return Together?
Now that both Gabby and Casey have departed Firehouse 51, speculation has exploded online about a potential reunion—whether in Chicago or elsewhere. Could Season 14 or 15 give fans the closure they’ve been craving?
With Chicago Fire continuing to evolve and characters coming and going, a Gabby Dawson return would be more than nostalgia—it would be a spark fans have waited years to feel again.