Big changes are hitting Firehouse 51 once again, and this time, it’s Derrick Gibson (Rome Flynn) making an unexpected exit. Introduced at the start of
Chicago Fire Season 12, Gibson’s time with Truck 81 has been surprisingly short-lived, lasting only six episodes On March 28, Flynn took to
Instagram to confirm his departure, posting a heartfelt “Curtain call Chicago Fire” alongside behind-the-scenes images from his time on set. Shortly after,
Deadline verified that Episode 8, titled All the Dark, marked Flynn’s final appearance on the show. The episode focuses on Sam Carver (Jake Lockett) growing increasingly concerned about Gibson’s erratic behavior. Carver eventually confronts him and discovers he has been using drugs, leading to a tense and even violent encounter.
Faced with the truth, Gibson decides to take a leave of absence to focus on his mental health and recovery from addiction. Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) stands by his side, offering support as he steps away. While his exit is significant, it is just one of several major events in the episode, which also features a chemical leak at a dialysis center, a prank war at the firehouse, and political tensions within the leadership ranks. Additionally, Boden (Eamonn Walker) fires Jared Lennox (Wesam Keesh) from Engine Company 51 for insubordination, marking yet another departure.
Derrick Gibson Joins a Wave of Exits from Chicago Fire
Gibson’s farewell follows a growing trend of characters leaving Chicago Fire this season. Fans recently bid goodbye to Sylvie Brett (Kara Killmer) in Episode 6, as she left for Portland, Oregon, to start a new life with Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer) and their family. Another character missing from Firehouse 51 is Blake Gallo (Alberto Rosende), who departed between Season 11’s finale and the beginning of Season 12. Though he returned briefly to say goodbye, he revealed that he had found a new sense of belonging with his extended family in Detroit, Michigan.
Despite these departures, there’s also fresh energy coming to Chicago Fire. Deadline reports that Jocelyn Hudon has joined the cast in a recurring role, though details about her character remain under wraps. Whether she will become a full-time member of the firehouse or make a short-lived impact remains to be seen.
With so many changes happening, Chicago Fire fans may feel a bit overwhelmed. However, the show has always evolved, introducing new characters while saying farewell to others. Only time will tell which newcomers will cement their place in Firehouse 51 and which faces will be gone before long. Stay tuned as Season 12 continues to unfold!