TV - Movies
The Real Reason
Charlie Barnett
Left Chicago Fire
By KATY KROLL
Fans couldn't believe it when actor Charlie Barnett exited "Chicago Fire" in 2015 after just three seasons on the hit NBC series. While his departure left viewers bewildered and bereaved, there was a concrete explanation behind the scenes for Barnett's sudden exit.
"Chicago Fire" executive producer Matt Olmstead told TV Guide at the time, "The hardest part of this job is when you feel it's the right time to make cast changes. [Losing Barnett] was solely based on bringing in new people for new stories."
Once the initial shock of being written off "Chicago Fire" subsided, Barnett turned his attention to exploring new acting opportunities. He landed a starring role in the second and final season of ABC’s "Secrets & Lies" in 2016, starred in the short-lived CW military drama "Valor," and landed a role on the critically acclaimed Netflix series "Russian Doll," which premiered in 2019.
So far, Barnett has not returned to "Chicago Fire" since leaving the show in 2015, and there are no current plans to see him again at Firehouse 51. However, "Chicago Fire" showrunner Derek Haas once told TVLine that he hoped to invite Barnett back one day, and Barnett admitted to TV Guide that he has had "discussions" about a potential return, which fans have made clear they are onboard for.