Jesse Spencer has departed from NBC’s Chicago Fire after 10 seasons with the show. News broke during the series’ 200th episode that aired Wednesday night as revealed by Deadline.
What Does This mean For Jesse Spencer’s Character?
In the 200th episode, it is confirmed that Spencer’s character Matthew Casey is moving to Oregon. His reason for leaving is to look after Griffin and Ben Darden, sons of Andy Darden (legendary Firehouse 51 firefighter) who died during the premiere.
Characters Casey and Sylvie Brett (Kara Killmer) now must experience a long distance relationship. The couple agreed to give it a go after Casey broke the news to Brett.
Characters Sylvie Brett (Kara Killmer) and Matthew Casey (Jesse Spencer) in Chicago Fire.
Jesse Spencer’s Statement
“It wraps up ten years for me,” Spencer told media outlet members after his exit. “I think it was pretty organic that he’s leaving and he’s going for three years, but is he? We don’t know. It’s been a long time coming when you know how these compadres have gone through life and death together. It’s hard to say goodbye, you know, see you soon, kind of thing. It was bittersweet but I really enjoyed it and we got some laughs out of it,” he said.
Spencer then expressed his longing to explore other opportunities. “I realized I’d been doing TV for a long time, I added it up. I think this year is my 18th year on television because I went straight from House to Chicago Fire,” he continued.
After making up his mind, Spencer spoke to executive producer, Derek Haas, about his decision. “We were coming up on the 200th episode and I called Derek to break the news that it was time for me to leave the show. He agreed we should at least get Casey to the 200th episode. It was a difficult decision because I’ve loved the show from the start but there are other things I’d like to do in the future. There’s family I need to take care of, and 18 years is a long time,” Spencer added.
Derek Haas’ Statement
Executive producer Derek Haas commented about Spencer’s departure after reflecting on their years together. “I hate that Jessie’s leaving. It was a very difficult episode to write,” he shared. “He’s been incredible from day one of the pilot to right now and he’s one of my favorite people beyond acting. Anytime I was in Chicago, I would call Jessie to get together. Anyways, I have bittersweet feelings or just bitter feelings, but I thought the episode turned out really well. I just want to thank Jesse publicly for his amazing service and friendship and for making the show incredible,” Hass continued.
