Chicago Fire kicked off its eleventh season in September 2022 with a lineup of fan-favorite characters returning to the squad. However, the absence of one beloved character, Leslie Shay, has left fans wondering why she was written out of the show. Played by the talented Lauren German, Shay's departure shocked audiences. Let me fill you in on what happened to this unforgettable paramedic.
The Tragic End for Shay on 'Chicago Fire'
Leslie Shay, the paramedic at Firehouse 51, became a fan favorite from the moment she stepped onto the scene in season one of Chicago Fire back in 2012. Shay, often referred to by her last name, stood out as one of the few women on the predominantly male crew, promising a bright future in the drama series. But in the second season finale titled "Real Never Waits," everything changed. Shay entered a burning building and was tragically struck by falling debris. The episode ended with a cliffhanger, leaving viewers on edge and wondering if she had survived.
When the third season premiered in 2014, the truth was revealed: Shay had not made it out of the building. The show explained that an arsonist had set traps specifically targeting first responders. Her death left a profound impact on her colleagues, who honored her by painting a tribute on the door of Ambulance 61. It was a heartbreaking moment that fans will never forget.
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Could Shay Make a Comeback on 'Chicago Fire'?
While Lauren German did reappear in a few flashbacks following Shay's tragic demise, it seemed like her time on the show had come to a definitive end. Yet, as the years rolled by, many long-time fans couldn't help but wonder if there was still a chance for Shay to return. Could the show find a way to bring her back, even if just in memory?
Executive producer Matt Olmstead later opened up about the decision to write off Shay, revealing it wasn't an easy choice. “We had discussions about possibly killing off another character,” Matt explained in a 2014 interview with TV Line. “But in the end, we felt Shay's departure would resonate most with the audience.” He also shared Lauren's reaction to the news. “She took it very professionally,” he added. “She even joked about not missing Chicago winters, being a California girl.”
As for future appearances, Matt teased that Lieutenant Kelly Severide might have DVDs filled with cherished memories of Shay. “Who knows, maybe one day he’ll pop one in when he needs to remember her,” Matt hinted, leaving the door open for Shay's memory to live on through flashbacks.
What’s Lauren German Up To These Days?
Shay’s unforgettable death remains a deeply emotional moment for fans. In fact, Lauren was nominated for Favorite TV Character We Miss the Most at the 2015 People’s Choice Awards. After saying goodbye to Chicago Fire, Lauren took her talents to Lucifer, starring in over 90 episodes from 2016 until the series finale in 2021. It was a role that showcased her versatility and kept her in the spotlight.
As the tenth anniversary of Shay's death approaches, Chicago Fire fans continue to express their love for the character on social media. “I’m still holding out hope for her return,” one fan tweeted, echoing the sentiments of many others who cherish Shay’s legacy.
