Chicago Fire just ushered in the end of an era for Firehouse 51, with yesterday’s (October 20) big episode confirming the departure of one of the show’s main characters.

As the series marked its 200th episode in the US, Chicago Fire fans were shocked to discover that Captain Matthew Casey would be leaving his crew and moving to Oregon.

Jesse Spencer, who plays Casey, told Deadline and other media outlets that it was “hard” to say goodbye to the series, but he thought his exit storyline was “pretty organic” .

“For me, it ended 10 years,” the actor reflected. “I think it’s obvious that he’s gone and that he’ll be gone for three years, but is he? We don’t know. It’s been a long time since you’ve known these companions who’ve been through life together and What is death like?

“It’s hard to say goodbye, you know, see you soon. It’s bittersweet but I really enjoyed it and we had a good laugh.”

Matthew Casey decides to leave Firehouse 51 to take care of Griffin and Ben Darden, the son of his late colleague Andy – but only until the youngest Ben turns 18.

Jesse Spencer, Chicago Flames
In an emotional conclusion, Matt told partner Sylvie Brett that he had no choice but to leave for Oregon. “The social worker said there was no real chance I could get Griffin and Ben here, and if I didn’t take custody of them they would be separated,” he told Sylvie.

Chicago Fire boss Derek Haas has hinted that things will be difficult for the pair, who have agreed to try to maintain their long-distance relationship.

So will the Captain return in the future? We’ll have to wait and see.