Why Jesse Spencer is Leaving 'Chicago Fire' as Captain Matt Casey

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Chicago Fire fans, it’s time to say goodbye to one of the show’s OGs. Jesse Spencer, who has starred as Captain Matt Casey on the show since its pilot in October 2012, left the show during its 200th episode on NBC last night (Oct. 20). Spoiler alert for anyone who has not seen the most recent episode of Chicago Fire, “Two Hundred.” During the episode, Casey makes the “life-altering decision” to move to Oregon for three years, leading him to be written off the series.

Before the episode aired yesterday, Chicago Fire executive producer Derek Haas spoke to the press to confirm Spencer’s exit in advance. The EP noted he had “bittersweet feelings” about Spencer’s departure, thanking the actor “years of amazing friendship and service and acting and making the show credible.” He also said that while he was proud of the episode, it was still difficult to write.

So, why did Spencer leave the series, and will he be back after that three year commitment mentioned in the show? Here’s what we know about Lieutenant Matt Casey’s departure from Chicago Fire.

Why did Jesse Spencer leave Chicago Fire?

Spencer himself decided to leave the One Chicago universe. After 18 straight years working in television, he said it was time to do some other things. He says he’d like to step back and take care of his family members.

“I hate to leave the show because I do love this show, but when the time comes, the time comes,” Spencer said.

How was Lieutenant Matt Casey written off Chicago Fire?

Casey decides to leave Firehouse 51 to move to Oregon to look after the Griffin boys after finding the pair have been living by themselves.

Will Jesse Spencer return to Chicago Fire after three years?

Per Variety‘s reporting, it’s a possibility. In the press statements made, Spencer mentioned the idea of Casey returning in the future — even if his character is off in Oregon now. Haas also spoke on the matter, stating that he likes to keep characters alive if he thinks a future appearance is possible.

Who will be the commanding officer replacing Matt Casey?

Haas isn’t looking to tattle on his own show, but he teased a bit yesterday. “I don’t want to spoil anything, but that becomes a major storyline through the winter break because obviously there are some shifting chairs within the firehouse,” Haas said. “We were glad to bring Wallace Boden back in ‘Two Hundred’ because with Jesse leaving, we needed somebody there to keep it from being so untethered.” We’ll have to wait and see!