The One Chicago universe has never shied away from gut-wrenching twists and character shakeups. Whether it’s a tragic loss, a sudden departure, or a bittersweet farewell, these exits have shattered fans and reshaped their beloved shows. Here’s a look at the most unforgettable character goodbyes—ranked from the most recent heartbreak to the earliest shocks.
Upton Walks Away: The Lone Wolf Leaves Intelligence Behind
Detective Hailey Upton’s exit from Chicago P.D. wasn’t loud—but it was loud in impact. Crumbling under the weight of Halstead’s absence, years of trauma, and disillusionment with Voight’s methods, Upton made the quiet yet radical decision to leave the Intelligence Unit. Fans were stunned by the vulnerability and power in her choice. Tracy Spiridakos’ performance drew waves of appreciation as viewers said goodbye to one of the most emotionally complex women in the franchise.
Kidd’s Unexpected Turn: Motherhood, Leadership, and Possible Goodbye?
Stella Kidd has always been the firehouse’s anchor—but recent developments in Chicago Fire suggest her priorities are shifting. Choosing adoption with Severide marked a new chapter, but rumors of her transferring to another house have fans bracing for a graceful exit.
While no official departure has aired, the emotional groundwork has been laid, signaling that Firehouse 51 may soon feel her absence.
Violet on the Brink: Will the Grief Be Too Much?
Paramedic Violet Mikami’s journey in Season 13 has been anything but stable. Still reeling from the death of Hawkins and overwhelmed by professional pressures, Violet has reached a tipping point. Though she hasn’t officially left, many fans believe she’s one crisis away from walking out for good.
Her storyline has resonated deeply, with audiences applauding Hanako Greensmith’s raw portrayal of trauma and burnout.
Chief Boden’s Final Bell: The End of an Era
Chief Wallace Boden stood tall at the heart of Chicago Fire since day one. His departure in Season 12 marked a generational shift, as Boden passed the torch to the next wave of firefighters. His farewell was emotional and dignified, filled with heartfelt tributes and legacy-building moments.
Eamonn Walker’s exit wasn’t just a goodbye to a character—it felt like the show was closing a chapter of its soul.
Halstead’s Disappearing Act: A Hero Without Closure
Jay Halstead’s goodbye shocked Chicago P.D. fans not just for its suddenness—but for how little resolution it offered.
His abrupt relocation to Bolivia left a gaping hole in the narrative and fractured his marriage with Upton. Jesse Lee Soffer’s departure triggered a tidal wave of frustration and sadness online, as fans begged for a proper sendoff that never came.
A Wedding and a Goodbye: Choi and April’s Happy Ending
In a rare moment of peace and closure, Dr. Ethan Choi and April Sexton left Chicago Med as husband and wife.
Their reunion and marriage offered a satisfying ending to a years-long push-and-pull relationship. Choosing to focus on community health, their departure felt more like a celebration than a loss—one that gave fans the kind of emotional payoff rarely seen in TV medical dramas.
Tragedy in the OR: Ava’s Descent and Connor’s Exit
Season 5 of Chicago Med delivered one of the darkest storylines in the franchise’s history. After a toxic spiral of manipulation, betrayal, and alleged murder, Dr. Ava Bekker took her own life—leaving Connor Rhodes shattered. Unable to stay at the hospital that bore such trauma, Connor walked away from Gaffney Memorial. This double-exit was both shocking and haunting, leaving fans speechless and unsettled.
Dawson’s Departure: When Love and Duty Collide
Gabriela Dawson’s decision to leave Chicago Fire was wrapped in love and heartbreak. Monica Raymund’s character moved to Puerto Rico for humanitarian work, breaking away from both the firehouse and her marriage to Casey. Her emotional goodbye and rare return visits left fans nostalgic—and often hoping for a second chance that never fully came.
The Death That Changed Everything: Olinsky’s Final Stand
Detective Alvin Olinsky’s death remains the most gut-wrenching moment in Chicago P.D. history. Wrongfully imprisoned and murdered behind bars, his end was brutal and abrupt. The shock rippled across the unit, but hit Voight the hardest—his grief and guilt still felt seasons later. Elias Koteas’ portrayal of Olinsky was so compelling that his loss marked a before-and-after moment for the series.
Fans still mourn the fall of the old-school cop who stood for loyalty above all else.
These character exits and deaths were more than just plot twists—they were emotional earthquakes that redefined the very heart of . Whether sudden or bittersweet, they’ve left a permanent mark on fans who continue to feel every goodbye like it just aired yesterday.