Firehouse 51 has forged dozens of dedicated first responders throughout Chicago Fire’s long-running reign. While many 51 fan favorites come and go, paramedic Gianna Mackey (Adriyan Rae) was a Season 9 standout.
Mackey’s arrival brought several compelling storylines to the Windy City firehouse, with her journey highlighted by action, romance, and camaraderie that led to a quick induction into the 51 family. With her dedicated attitude, quick-on-her-feet medical prowess, and charming demeanor, Mackey quickly established herself as a valuable asset to the team. From the gripping rescues she pulled off with Sylvie Brett (Kara Killmer) to her steamy romance with another member of the house, Mackey’s Chicago Fire storyline delivered the heat.
Mackey was a certified scene-stealer on Chicago Fire, which is why we’re looking back at the paramedic’s journey as a member of Firehouse 51.
Who was Gianna Mackey on Chicago Fire?
Making her way to the Windy City firehouse in the Season 9 premiere (“Rattle Second City”), Gianna Mackey was a paramedic who replaced Emily Foster (Annie Ilonzeh) on Ambulance 61, working closely with then Paramedic in Charge Sylvie Brett. Mackey had a connection to Firehouse 51 prior to her recruitment, thanks to her childhood friendship with Joe Cruz (Joe Miñoso). While Mackey’s time at Firehouse 51 only lasted nine episodes, she was a memorable member of the crew who crossed paths with several Chicago Fire fan favorites during her brief but beautiful tenure.
While some first responders have to work their way into being welcomed to 51, before her arrival in Season 9, Mackey was already thick as thieves with Cruz. Mackey and Cruz grew up in the same neighborhood and were close childhood friends. Mackey’s brother Dex got sick and passed away when they were kids, and as a result, Cruz stepped in, leading him and Mackey to develop a sibling relationship. While Cruz revealed Mackey could fend for herself, he was very protective of Mackey. While that bugged her occasionally, it’s a sentiment that she ultimately appreciated.
Shortly following her introduction to 51, Mackey caught the eye of former 51 firefighter Blake Gallo (Alberto Rosende). After swapping some flirtatious banter, Mackey took the lead in asking Gallo out on a date — instantly frustrating Cruz, who cautioned Gallo not to accept. As one of the most respected firefighters at the station, Gallo wasn’t keen on disrespecting Cruz’s wishes, but his chemistry with Mackey continued to fire off on all cylinders, with Mackey attempting to give Gallo her phone number in Season 9, Episode 3 (“Smash Therapy”). Still, Gallo’s concerns for Cruz’s wrath led him to decline Mackey’s offer.
