Kara Killmer, beloved for her portrayal of paramedic Sylvie Brett on Chicago Fire, recently opened up about her departure from the hit NBC series. In an exclusive interview, the actress admitted that leaving the show was a decision she sometimes looks back on with mixed feelings.
“Firehouse 51 was more than just a workplace,” Killmer said. “It was a family. It was where I grew as an actor, but also as a person. Nothing else in my career has made me feel the same way I did when I was on that set.”
Since her exit, Killmer has explored other projects, including guest roles on TV dramas and involvement in independent films. While she has enjoyed the creative freedom that comes with trying new roles, she confesses that no other project has offered the same sense of purpose and camaraderie as Chicago Fire.
“It’s rare to find a set where everyone genuinely supports one another,” she continued. “From day one, I felt welcomed by the cast and crew. That’s something I’ll never forget.”
Fans of the show have long praised Killmer for bringing warmth, professionalism, and emotional depth to Sylvie Brett. Her portrayal has been lauded for balancing compassion with toughness, making her one of the most relatable and beloved characters on Firehouse 51. Killmer admits that she learned as much from her castmates as they did from her, forming friendships that extend well beyond the show.
Reflecting on her time on Chicago Fire, Killmer also discussed the challenges of balancing life on a high-intensity show with personal goals. The fast-paced environment, long shooting days, and emotional storylines were rewarding, but also demanding. “Leaving wasn’t easy,” she said. “I knew that stepping away meant missing out on a lot of the behind-the-scenes magic and the day-to-day life of Firehouse 51.”
Despite her departure, Killmer remains connected to the Chicago Fire family. She frequently interacts with fans online, attends conventions, and shares behind-the-scenes memories that showcase her love for the series. “Even though I’m exploring other things, I’ll always carry a piece of 51 with me,” she explained.
When asked if she would ever return to the show, Killmer laughed, saying, “You never know! I’ll always have a soft spot for Firehouse 51. The right story or the right moment could always bring me back.” Her fans, who have watched Sylvie Brett grow from a rookie paramedic into a respected member of the team, are undoubtedly holding out hope for a cameo or even a full return in future seasons.
In the end, Kara Killmer’s reflections serve as a reminder of the powerful bonds that can form on set, and the ways in which a defining role can leave a lasting imprint on an actor’s life. While she continues to explore new creative avenues, her love for Chicago Fire and the experiences at Firehouse 51 remain unmistakably central to her career story.
