Chicago Fire season 10 spoilers follow.
Chicago Fire just ushered in the end of an era for Firehouse 51, with yesterday's (October 20) milestone episode confirming the departure of one of the show's main characters.
As the drama marked its 200th episode in the US, Chicago Fire fans were shocked to discover that Captain Matthew Casey would be leaving his crew behind and moving to Oregon.
Jesse Spencer, who plays Casey, told Deadline and other media that it was "hard" to say goodbye to the series, but that he thought his exit storyline was "pretty organic".
Related: Chicago Fire season 10 release date, cast, plot, trailer and everything you need to know
"It wraps up 10 years for me," the actor reflected. "I think it was pretty organic that he's leaving and he's going for three years, but is he? We don't know. It's been a long time coming when you know how these compadres have gone through life and death together.
"It's hard to say goodbye, you know, see you soon, kind of thing. It was bittersweet but I really enjoyed it and we got some laughs out of it."
Matthew Casey decided to leave Firehouse 51 to look after Griffin and Ben Darden, the sons of his late colleague Andy – but only until the youngest Ben turns 18.
In an emotional conclusion, Matt told partner Sylvie Brett that he had no choice but to leave for Oregon. "The social worker said there's no real chance I could ever bring Griffin and Ben here, and if I don't take their guardianship they'll be split up," he told Sylvie.
Chicago Fire boss Derek Haas has already hinted that things will be difficult for the couple, who agreed to try to make their long-distance relationship work.
So, will the Captain ever make a return in the future? We'll have to wait and see.
Chicago Fire airs on NBC in the US and on Sky Witness in the UK.
