Movies News Talk
One Chicago is a beloved franchise that has kept fans entertained for years. But one constant question has surfaced over the past few seasons: "Why are so many actors leaving?" It's not unusual for procedural dramas like Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med to see some cast turnover. But the recent departures of high-profile actors have definitely turned heads.
Jeff Bader, the President of Program Planning Strategy for NBCUniversal Entertainment, recently addressed this topic. He admitted that Cast Changes are common, and, despite the recent departures, the franchise is going strong. He emphasized that the "Chicagos" are a success and that NBC has no plans to alter the Wednesday night schedule.
Chicago Fire has seen a few key players exit in recent seasons. Kara Killmer, who played Sylvie Brett since 2014, left in season 12. Alberto Rosende, who portrayed Blake Gallo, also departed. These departures were characterized as creative decisions. Eamonn Walker, another founding member of the show, also exited at the end of season 12, but he will continue to appear as Wallace Boden.
Chicago P.D. also saw some notable changes. Tracy Spiridakos, who played Hailey Upton, departed the series. Chicago Med also bid farewell to Dominic Rains, who played Dr. Crockett Marcel.
It's not just One Chicago that's seeing cast shake-ups. Many television series across genres are looking to reduce costs and simplify storylines. Series like Grey's Anatomy and the FBI franchise are making changes to their casts, with cast members taking on lower pay structures.
These changes may be a bit jarring to some fans, but it's important to remember that they are part of the evolving landscape of television.
Despite the recent changes, the One Chicago franchise is a powerhouse for NBC. The series consistently rank among the top 10 most-watched shows on television, and that success is a testament to the enduring appeal of the franchise.
While some fans may be disappointed by the departures, NBC's commitment to the franchise is a sign that the shows will continue to deliver the drama and action that viewers crave.