For nearly a decade, Kara Killmer was the heart and soul of the Ambulance 61 team.1 As Sylvie Brett, she navigated harrowing rescues, complex romances, and a journey from a “jilted bride” to finding her soulmate in Matt Casey. But when Killmer hung up her paramedic shears in early 2024, fans were left wondering: what’s next for the woman who brought so much light to the Windy City? After a quiet period of development and auditions, the news is finally out. Kara Killmer is swapping the sirens of Chicago for the silver screen of 1940s Hollywood.2
The Big Reveal: “Jimmy” and the Biopic Buzz
In a move that surprised and delighted the “Chi-Hard” community, Variety recently confirmed that Kara Killmer has officially joined the cast of Jimmy, a high-profile biopic chronicling the life of legendary actor and war hero James Stewart.3
Stepping Into the Shoes of Lady Julia
Killmer isn’t just playing a background role; she’s taking on the character of Lady Julia.4 While historians have pointed out that James Stewart didn’t have a high-profile romance with a “Julia” in real life, the film appears to be blending historical fact with narrative flair. Early reports and trailer glimpses suggest Julia is a talented singer who performs for the troops during World War II—a role that will finally allow Killmer to showcase her musical talents on a global stage.5
Working Alongside KJ Apa
In an unexpected pairing, Riverdale alum KJ Apa stars as the iconic Jimmy Stewart.6 The chemistry between Apa and Killmer is already a major talking point for fans, especially after a teaser trailer showed the two in a poignant embrace near a vintage military aircraft. It’s a far cry from the locker rooms of Firehouse 51, and it’s exactly the “different flavor” Killmer hoped to find after a decade of procedural drama.
Why This Move Makes Perfect Sense for Killmer
Leaving a stable, long-running hit like Chicago Fire is always a gamble. However, for Killmer, the decision was about growth and creative reinvention.
The “Brettsey” Conclusion Provided a Clean Slate
Killmer was vocal about wanting Sylvie Brett’s story to end on a high note. By marrying Casey and moving to Portland, the writers gave her a “happily ever after” that few characters in the One Chicago universe ever receive. This allowed Killmer to exit without the “tragedy baggage” that often follows soap and procedural stars, making her transition to a period-piece biopic feel like a natural evolution.
A Return to Film Roots
Many fans forget that Killmer actually started her career in film, notably in the 2015 Revolutionary War thriller Beyond the Mask.7 Returning to a historical setting like the 1940s feels like a homecoming for an actress who has always excelled at portraying characters with deep moral conviction and timeless charm.
Everything We Know About the Film “Jimmy”
| Feature | Details |
| Director | Aaron Burns (The Mythmakers) |
| Leading Actor | KJ Apa as James Stewart |
| Kara Killmer’s Role | Lady Julia (A wartime singer/love interest) |
| Other Notable Cast | Jason Alexander, Sarah Drew, Christopher McDonald |
| Release Date | November 6, 2026 |
| Theme | WWII military service and Hollywood’s Golden Age |
The Emotional Legacy: Will We Ever See Sylvie Brett Again?
Even as she prepares for a theatrical rollout in November 2026, Killmer hasn’t forgotten the firehouse that made her a household name. In various interviews, she has remained open to the idea of a guest appearance.8
The “Pregnant Sylvie” Theory
Fans have been clamoring for a “Where are they now?” update on Brettsey. Killmer herself has joked about wanting to visit the firehouse with a “baby bump,” showing that the door to 51 is never truly locked.9 While her focus is currently on the big screen, the connection to the Wolf Entertainment family remains strong
The One Chicago Ecosystem Supports Its Own
It’s worth noting that the One Chicago franchise has a history of supporting its alums as they move on to new ventures. With the Jimmy biopic featuring other TV veterans like Sarah Drew (Grey’s Anatomy), the project feels like a bridge between the world of primetime television and prestige cinema.10
Conclusion: A Star on the Rise
Kara Killmer’s transition from television paramedic to a 1940s songstress is more than just a career move; it’s a testament to her versatility as an artist. While we will always miss Sylvie Brett’s optimistic spirit and her expert care on Ambulance 61, the prospect of seeing Killmer under the bright lights of a Hollywood biopic is an exciting new chapter. Mark your calendars for November 6, 2026—the siren might be off, but Kara Killmer’s spotlight is just getting started.
