Alberto Rosende on His Decision to Exit Chicago Fire: ‘It Wasn’t Easy’

Alberto Rosende is addressing his exit from Chicago Fire for the first time since news broke earlier this week that the actor is leaving the NBC drama.

Rosende, who has played firefighter Blake Gallo for four seasons, will make his final appearance in the Season 12 premiere (airing Jan. 17).

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“When I decided to end my time with Chicago [Fire], it wasn’t easy,” Rosende wrote in an Instagram story on Saturday. “The people I’ve met were truly special, the friendships I’ve made will last a lifetime and story I got to tell was one that made me proud. Can’t wait to see what else is in store and I wish everyone the best in shooting the rest of the season!”

Rosende’s departure isn’t the only cast shakeup awaiting the series next season: As TVLine previously reported, Kara Killmer will return to the show in Season 12 — but it will be her last year as paramedic Sylvie Brett. The exact timetable/episode for her exit has not been revealed yet.

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On the bright side, leading man Taylor Kinney will return as Lieutenant Kelly Severide for at least the start of Season 12. The actor took a leave of absence from the show in January to deal with a personal matter. Meanwhile, co-showrunner Andrea Newman will hold the post solo for the upcoming season, following co-showrunner/co-creator Derek Haas’ exit from the series in November 2022.

Chicago Fire Season 12 premieres Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 9/8c for a shortened 13-episode season following the conclusion of the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes.

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