Season 14 Brings More Exits

The flames of Firehouse 51 continue to burn bright, but fans know Chicago Fire has weathered many goodbyes. Ahead of season 14, the NBC hit confirmed that Michael Bradway, Daniel Kyri, and Jake Lockett are the latest to step away. Their exits follow a long line of emotional departures that have shaped the series since its debut in 2012.

From shocking deaths to bittersweet send-offs, here’s a look back at the actors who have said goodbye — and how their stories unfolded.

Michael Bradway as Jack Damon

Michael Bradway joined in season 12 as Jack Damon, Kelly Severide’s half-brother. After two seasons, he won’t return for season 14.

Bradway is moving on to a new role in Prime Video’s adaptation of Every Summer After. However, producers have left the door open for a possible return if his schedule allows.

Jake Lockett as Sam Carver

Introduced in season 11, Sam Carver quickly became part of the Firehouse 51 family. But Lockett confirmed his exit at the end of season 13.

Sharing the news on Instagram, he wrote that he didn’t know what the future held but would “miss the hell” out of playing Sam. His farewell message reflected the pride and gratitude he felt for three seasons with the show.

Daniel Kyri as Darren Ritter

Daniel Kyri debuted in season 7 as Darren Ritter and grew into a series regular. His journey ended in the season 13 finale.

Kyri thanked fans and colleagues in his farewell post, writing, “I’ll miss this character, and it’s time to move on.” Reports suggest his departure, along with Lockett’s, came as part of a budget reset.

Eamonn Walker as Wallace Boden

Few exits hit harder than Eamonn Walker leaving at the end of season 12. As Chief Wallace Boden, Walker was a foundation of Firehouse 51 from the pilot.

Walker returned briefly in season 13, describing the reunion as warm and emotional. He admitted he hadn’t realized how much the cast had shaped his life until he left.

Kara Killmer as Sylvie Brett

After 10 years on the show, Kara Killmer said goodbye in February 2024. Her character Sylvie Brett married Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer) before moving to Oregon.

Killmer described the conclusion as natural, explaining that Sylvie and Matt’s relationship was always leading toward family life together.

Alberto Rosende as Blake Gallo

Alberto Rosende joined in season 8 as Blake Gallo. In the season 12 premiere, Gallo left for Michigan to reconnect with newly discovered relatives.

Rosende admitted leaving wasn’t easy but shared that the friendships he made on set would last forever.

Jesse Spencer as Matt Casey

An original cast member, Jesse Spencer stepped away in the landmark 200th episode of season 10. Matt Casey moved to Oregon to raise the sons of his late best friend.

Spencer returned for special appearances, including Sylvie Brett’s wedding, but said the time had come to focus on family and new projects.

Other Notable Exits

Over the years, Firehouse 51 has also bid farewell to:

• Adriyan Rae (Gianna Mackey) – left at the end of season 9 for personal reasons.

• Annie Ilonzeh (Emily Foster) – returned to medical school at the end of season 8.

• Yuriy Sardarov (Otis) – died tragically in the season 8 premiere.

• Monica Raymund (Gabriela Dawson) – left in season 7 but made guest appearances later.

• Steven R. McQueen (Jimmy Borelli) – written out in season 5 after a career-ending injury.

• Dora Madison Burge (Jessica “Chili” Chilton) – fired in season 4 after a downward spiral.

• Charlie Barnett (Peter Mills) – left in season 3 after his family moved away.

• Lauren German (Leslie Shay) – killed in the season 3 premiere.

• Teri Reeves (Dr. Hallie Thomas) – murdered in season 1.

Firehouse 51’s Lasting Legacy

Chicago Fire has always been about family, even as that family changes. Characters come and go, but the bonds they form leave lasting marks on both the firehouse and the fans who follow their stories.

As season 14 approaches, the firehouse must once again adjust to life without familiar faces. Yet, the departures also create space for new recruits, new dynamics, and new stories to ignite.