The One Chicago franchise, which includes Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med, has been a cornerstone of NBC’s lineup for over a decade. With its gripping stories, complex characters, and interconnected narratives, it has earned a loyal fanbase. However, along the way, several character departures have hit fans particularly hard, leaving emotional gaps and stirring strong reactions. Here are the 10 most upsetting departures in One Chicago history that still resonate with viewers today.
One of the most heart-wrenching exits was the death of Alvin Olinsky on Chicago P.D. Played by Elias Koteas, Olinsky was a tough, loyal detective whose sudden and brutal death in Season 5 shook both the Intelligence Unit and the fans. His departure marked a turning point in the series and left a void that was deeply felt. Similarly, Monica Raymund’s Gabriela Dawson on Chicago Fire was a beloved character known for breaking barriers as a paramedic and firefighter. Her exit in Season 7 left fans mourning the loss of a strong female lead whose personal and professional struggles were a highlight of the show.
Another upsetting departure came with Erin Lindsay, portrayed by Sophia Bush on Chicago P.D. Lindsay’s gritty backstory and fierce dedication to justice won her a passionate fanbase. When she left abruptly after five seasons to join Chicago Justice, many felt her storyline was cut short, leaving a hole in the Intelligence Unit dynamic. On Chicago Fire, the tragic death of Brian “Otis” Zvonecek deeply affected viewers. Otis was a fan favorite, known for his humor and heart, and his passing reminded audiences of the very real dangers firefighters face, making his farewell one of the most emotional moments in the franchise.
The hospital drama Chicago Med also had its share of upsetting exits, including the departure of nurse April Sexton, played by Yaya DaCosta. April’s compassion and resilience made her a key figure in the series, and her exit left a significant gap in the hospital’s ecosystem. Meanwhile, fans have also been anxious during moments when Hank Voight, the stalwart leader of Chicago P.D. played by Jason Beghe, faced potential departures or storyline breaks, underscoring how central his character is to the franchise’s success.
Finally, Colin Donnell’s Connor Rhodes on Chicago Med was a charismatic and complex surgeon whose exit in Season 4 disappointed many who valued his character’s depth and charm. His departure shifted the show’s dynamic, marking another significant moment in the franchise.
What makes these departures so upsetting is not just losing characters but the emotional bonds viewers build over years. These characters become part of the audience’s lives—heroes, friends, and family. Their stories evoke hope, sadness, and excitement, and saying goodbye feels like losing a piece of that connection. Moreover, the One Chicago franchise is known for blending intense drama with realistic, heartfelt storytelling, so these exits often come with emotional weight that stays long after the episodes air. Despite the pain of saying goodbye, these departures also open the door for new stories and fresh characters. The franchise continues to evolve, introducing new faces and exploring contemporary issues faced by police officers, firefighters, and medical professionals in Chicago. This ongoing evolution keeps the One Chicago universe dynamic and engaging for fans old and new.
In the end, the One Chicago franchise has given audiences unforgettable moments and characters, but it’s the difficult goodbyes that remind us of the show’s commitment to authentic storytelling. These 10 departures remain some of the most upsetting in the history of Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med, yet they also highlight the resilience and heart at the core of this beloved franchise.
