As Chicago Fire gears up for its upcoming season 14, the emotional fallout from season 13’s finale is still reverberating across its fanbase. The news that Sylvie Brett, played by Cara Kilmer, and Jack Damon, portrayed by Michael Bradway, are leaving the series has left many fans questioning the future of Firehouse 51.

Brett, a fan-favorite paramedic who’s been with the show since season 3, seemed to get the perfect sendoff when she married Matt Casey earlier this season. But the final episode left her fate in limbo, with no significant farewell or storyline to justify her departure. Instead of a proper closure for a character who’s been an integral part of the show, Brett’s exit was announced quietly, with no fanfare or explanation. This has led to an outpouring of frustration among viewers, many of whom feel that the character deserved more than just disappearing into the background.

In a heartbreaking Instagram post, Kilmer confirmed her departure, thanking fans for their support and expressing her gratitude for playing such a rewarding role. However, she left the door open for a potential return, fueling hopes among fans that Brett’s story may not be over completely.

Meanwhile, Jack Damon’s exit adds to the mounting disappointment. The actor, Michael Bradway, confirmed that he would be leaving Chicago Fire due to a scheduling conflict with his new role in Every Year After, an Amazon Prime series based on Carly Fortune’s popular novel. Damon, Kelly Seide’s half-brother, had only a brief presence in the season 13 finale, and his departure was never set up or foreshadowed. Now, the writers are left with the challenging task of explaining Damon’s exit without Bradway on set for season 14.

The lack of closure for these characters is especially frustrating when considering the larger issues surrounding Chicago Fire’s season 13 finale. The episode left many storylines unresolved, from the massive warehouse explosion to the simmering tensions between Chief Bowden and the department brass. With Brett’s unexpected departure and Damon’s offscreen exit, the show feels like it’s missing its emotional center.

What’s next for Firehouse 51? With Violet Makami taking center stage as the lead paramedic and Taylor Kinney’s return as Kelly Seide, Chicago Fire will have to find a way to fill the void left by these beloved characters. Fans will likely continue to follow the drama, but the unanswered questions surrounding Brett and Damon’s exits will undoubtedly linger in the background.