Season 13 of Chicago Fire, an exciting installment of the One Chicago franchise, is now streaming on NBC, having premiered on September 25, 2024. This popular series first debuted on October 10, 2012, and its fanbase continues to grow.
Chicago Fire portrays the professional and personal experiences of firefighters, rescue workers, and paramedics at the fictional Firehouse 51 of the Chicago Fire Department. One of the series’ most cherished characters, Gabby Dawson, is portrayed by Monica Raymund. Gabby, however, left the series after season 6.
According to NBC, Gabby’s departure was incorporated into the storyline when Monica Raymund expressed her desire to exit the series after its sixth season to pursue other career avenues. Nevertheless, Raymund made brief guest appearances in seasons 7 and 8 of the show.
Monica Raymund chose not to renew her contract after Chicago Fire season 6
Raymund shared with the Chicago Tribune on January 10, 2019, that after portraying Paramedic in Charge Gabby Dawson for six seasons, she was eager to explore new opportunities in her acting career. She stated:
“I’m not sure the exact moment when it happened, but I knew that my six-year contract was coming to an end and I felt like I was hungry to explore a different role, a different story. I wanted to explore a different world.”
Expressing gratitude for her time on the show, she emphasized the warmth of the fans’ reception but also felt the necessity to “diversify” her opportunities. Monica added:
“I had been in Chicago for five years and just personally where I was in my life, I was ready to create my home and kind of plant some roots in Los Angeles.”
This led to Gabby’s exit from Chicago Fire.
Raymund’s exit was integrated into the storyline
The creators of the show crafted a suitable farewell for Gabby once Raymund’s decision was known. In the season 6 finale, Chief Hatcher (played by Sam Porretta) approached Gabby with a new job opportunity that would necessitate leaving Chicago to lead a rescue-and-relief unit in Puerto Rico.
Leading up to the season 6 finale, Gabby’s personal life was fraught with challenges, especially concerning her pregnancy issues that created rising tensions with her husband, Matt Casey (played by Jesse Spencer). While Gabby was eager to try for another baby, Casey was hesitant following her miscarriage, compounded by the doctor’s warning about the risks of another pregnancy for her.
Casey proposed adoption as an alternative, while Gabby was determined to experience motherhood. Their differing views further strained their relationship, leading Gabby to ultimately accept the new job offer, culminating in her departure from Chicago Fire.
Gabby is one of the most unforgettable characters from Chicago Fire
Since season 1, Gabby has been depicted as a dedicated, competent, and compassionate first responder, capable of remaining calm in high-pressure situations. Initially starting as a paramedic, she later transitioned into a firefighter.
Gabby has enjoyed numerous memorable moments throughout the series.
After her exit from the main cast ahead of season 7, Raymund made two cameo appearances in Chicago Fire. In the season 7 premiere, Gabby bid her final goodbye to Casey in the office. Again in season 8, her character returned to Chicago for a brief two-day stint during a fundraising event.
Season 13 of Chicago Fire is currently airing on NBC.
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