Viewers were forced to say goodbye to many characters in Chicago Fire season 12, including Chief Wallace Boden, who Eamonn Walker has played since season 1. The NBC procedural drama, created by Michael Brandt and Derek Haas, has been a success for the network since its premiere in October 2012. It revolves around the personal and work lives of the firefighters and paramedics of Firehouse 51, including Boden. Over the course of its 13-season run, Chicago Fire has lost many actors who portrayed some of the show’s most beloved characters, and after season 12, Walker was added to that list.

From Lauren German as Leslie Shay in season 3 to Yuri Sardarov as Brian “Otis” Zvonecek in season 8, numerous Chicago Fire actors have exited their roles, whether their character died, moved out of Chicago, or a different factor that resulted in them leaving Firehouse 51. Unfortunately, main cast members departing their shows isn’t uncommon in series that run for a long time (like 13 seasons). The Chicago Fire season 1 cast was never going to look like the Chicago Fire season 13 cast, but saying goodbye to characters like Boden is still heartbreaking.

Why Did Eamonn Walker Leave Chicago Fire & What’s Been Said?
Walker Played Boden For 12 YearsUnfortunately, Eamonn Walker didn’t explain why he left Chicago Fire after his exit was announced. Many assume that his long tenure on the show played a factor in the actor stepping down from his series regular role. Walker has been with the NBC procedural drama since the beginning in 2012, and it’s not uncommon for actors in the One Chicago universe to step away after an extended period. So, Walker wanting to walk away from Chicago Fire and explore different opportunities is completely understandable. However, nothing is certain because Walker hasn’t come forward to give his side of the story.

Chicago Fire executive producer Dick Wolf sent his statement concerning Walker’s exit to Deadline. It reads:

“Eamonn was the first actor cast on Chicago Fire , and we knew once he said yes, that we were off and running. His character Chief Wallace Boden was the undisputed leader of Firehouse 51 and, off-screen, Eamonn has filled the same role with our ensemble cast.”

Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman also spoke about Walker leaving the One Chicago TV show during an interview with Deadline previewing the season 12 finale. When asked about the vibe on set while filming Walker’s last episode, Newman shared:

“Eamonn is the most big-hearted, passionate, hard-working and dedicated actor (and human) I know, and he is like a father to every cast member and crew member of this team. He is loved like no other. Any change in his position on Fire is going to be like an earthquake coming through. The vibe on set for the finale was just, hold onto Eamonn as tight as you can. Every minute with him is a gift.”