Introduction
The ‘One Chicago’ universe—comprising Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, and Chicago Med—has been a staple for fans of high-intensity drama, emotional storytelling, and unforgettable characters. Over the years, we’ve fallen in love with the heroes of Firehouse 51, the detectives of the Intelligence Unit, and the dedicated doctors of Gaffney Chicago Medical Center.
However, not all heroes stay forever. Some of the most beloved characters have made shocking exits, leaving fans heartbroken and in disbelief. Whether it was Monica Raymund’s Gabby Dawson leaving ‘Chicago Fire’ or Jesse Lee Soffer’s Jay Halstead bidding farewell to ‘Chicago PD,’ these departures have had a lasting impact.
Let’s take a deep dive into the most heartbreaking exits in ‘One Chicago’ history and the reasons behind them.
1. Monica Raymund (Gabriela “Gabby” Dawson) – ‘Chicago Fire’
Why Did Gabby Dawson Leave?
Gabby Dawson was a core character on Chicago Fire for six seasons, but in Season 7, fans were devastated when she moved to Puerto Rico to help with hurricane relief efforts.
Monica Raymund’s Decision to Move On
Raymund revealed that she was ready for a new chapter in her career and wanted to explore different roles beyond One Chicago. While fans understood her decision, the emotional farewell between Gabby and Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer) left a lasting impression.
Could Gabby Return?
Raymund has made guest appearances since her departure, leaving the door open for a potential return. But for now, it seems Gabby’s journey with Firehouse 51 has truly ended.
2. Jesse Lee Soffer (Jay Halstead) – ‘Chicago PD’
Halstead’s Sudden Exit Shocks Fans
Jay Halstead was one of the most beloved detectives in the Chicago PD universe, making his departure in Season 10 all the more painful.
Why Did Jesse Lee Soffer Leave?
Soffer announced his exit in 2022, stating that it was time for him to move on to other projects. However, the rushed nature of Halstead’s departure—leaving for an army assignment in Bolivia—left fans unsatisfied.
Will Halstead Ever Return?
While Soffer hasn’t ruled out the possibility of returning in the future, it’s unclear if Halstead will ever reunite with his wife, Hailey Upton (Tracy Spiridakos).
3. Sophia Bush (Erin Lindsay) – ‘Chicago PD’
Erin Lindsay’s Heartbreaking Goodbye
One of the most gut-wrenching exits from Chicago PD was that of Erin Lindsay, played by Sophia Bush. Her departure at the end of Season 4 left a void in the Intelligence Unit.
The Real Reason Behind Bush’s Exit
Bush later revealed that she left due to difficult working conditions on set. Though she didn’t go into specifics, she expressed that staying on the show had become unbearable.
Could Erin Lindsay Make a Comeback?
Given Bush’s public stance, it seems unlikely that Lindsay will return. However, fans still hold out hope for a surprise reunion.
4. Jon Seda (Antonio Dawson) – ‘Chicago PD’ and ‘Chicago Justice’
Antonio’s Fall from Grace
Antonio Dawson’s exit from Chicago PD was particularly tragic, as his character struggled with addiction before ultimately leaving the Intelligence Unit.
Why Did Jon Seda Leave?
Reports suggest that Seda’s departure was due to creative differences, with the writers feeling his character’s storyline had run its course.
Could Antonio Dawson Return?
Seda’s portrayal of Antonio was a fan favorite, and given that he wasn’t killed off, a future cameo isn’t out of the question.
5. Colin Donnell (Dr. Connor Rhodes) – ‘Chicago Med’
A Tragic Goodbye to Connor Rhodes
Dr. Connor Rhodes was one of Chicago Med’s most compelling characters, so his exit in Season 5 was devastating.
Why Did Colin Donnell Leave?
Donnell stated that his departure was not his decision, but rather a creative choice by the showrunners. His final storyline, involving the murder of his father and a transfer to another hospital, felt abrupt.
Is There Hope for Connor’s Return?
Since Connor wasn’t killed off, there’s always a chance he could make a guest appearance down the line.
6. Torrey DeVitto (Dr. Natalie Manning) – ‘Chicago Med’
Natalie Manning’s Emotional Farewell
Natalie Manning was a major part of Chicago Med since the beginning, making her exit in Season 7 feel like the end of an era.
Why Did Torrey DeVitto Leave?
DeVitto’s contract was not renewed, and she later shared that she was excited to pursue new projects.
Could She Return?
With her character still alive and well, a future cameo isn’t impossible.
7. Yuri Sardarov (Brian “Otis” Zvonecek) – ‘Chicago Fire’
Otis’ Death Broke Everyone’s Hearts
One of the most tragic exits in One Chicago history was the death of Brian “Otis” Zvonecek in Chicago Fire Season 8.
Why Did They Kill Off Otis?
The writers wanted to remind fans that being a firefighter is dangerous, and not everyone survives. His emotional farewell left a lasting impact.
Could We See Otis Again?
Since Otis was killed off, the only way he could return is in flashbacks or dream sequences.
Conclusion
The ‘One Chicago’ franchise has given us incredible characters, but with great storytelling comes heartbreaking goodbyes. Whether it was Gabby Dawson’s bittersweet exit, Jay Halstead’s sudden departure, or Otis’ tragic fate, these moments have left a lasting mark on fans.
As the franchise continues, we can only hope that future exits won’t be as devastating—but let’s be honest, they probably will be!
FAQs
1. Why do so many actors leave ‘One Chicago’?
Many actors leave due to contract expirations, creative decisions, or personal career moves.
2. Will Jesse Lee Soffer ever return to ‘Chicago PD’?
There’s always a chance, but for now, Soffer has moved on to other projects.
3. Which ‘One Chicago’ exit was the most heartbreaking?
Many fans agree that Otis’ death in Chicago Fire was one of the saddest moments in franchise history.
4. Are there any upcoming cast exits in ‘One Chicago’?
There are always rumors, but nothing has been confirmed for the next season.
5. Where can I watch old episodes of ‘One Chicago’?
You can stream Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, and Chicago Med on NBC, Peacock, and other streaming services.
