What happened to Gail McLeod on Chicago Fire? Explained
Chicago Fire is a popular TV drama that delves into the lives of firefighters, rescue squad members, and paramedics at Chicago's Firehouse 51. Season 13 of the NBC series premiered on September 25, 2024. Chicago Fire is the first series in the Chicago franchise, which also includes Chicago P.D. and Chicago Med.
Gail McLeod, portrayed by Michelle Forbes, was introduced in Chicago Fire season 2 as the Deputy Director of Finance for the State of Illinois. Her role in the show was to evaluate the efficiency of firehouses, making her a central antagonist as she targeted Firehouse 51 for possible closure. She was unsuccessful in doing so, and her character arc ended in season 2.
The show debuted in 2012 on NBC. It is created by Michael Brandt and Derek Haas, with Dick Wolf, known for the Law & Order franchise, serving as an executive producer.
What was Gail McLeod's storyline on Chicago Fire?
In Chicago Fire season 2, Gail McLeod’s character's main focus was to cut costs within the fire department— even if it meant closing down firehouses, including Firehouse 51. She was brought in by the state to address budget issues.
McLeod claimed Firehouse 51 to be a "problem house" and believed it was justified to shut it down. McLeod's methods were aggressive and often manipulative. Her clashes with Chief Boden made her adamant in wanting to close down Firehouse 51, even using minor issues.
Boden was committed to keeping his firehouse operational, and she went to great lengths to undermine his authority. For instance, she tried to instill Lieutenant Spellman within Firehouse 51 to gather insider information about Firehouse 51.
Her character arc ended in season 2, Episode 10, titled Not Like This. After spending much of the season trying to shut down Firehouse 51, McLeod's plan backfired when her $200,000 bonus for the 10% budget cut was exposed.
Firefighter Peter Mills sought help from his girlfriend Isabella, who arranged for a senator to intervene. Under all this pressure, McLeod signed away her mandate and exited the series, ending her storyline on Chicago Fire.
What's new at Firehouse 51 in season 13?
In season 13, the firehouse faces significant changes, especially with the arrival of the new chief, Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney). His leadership is different than that of Chief Boden's, and his presence causes tension among the team. The season also hints at Pascal's unresolved issues from the past and his personal life.
On the side, Herrmann is preparing for his captain's exam and Mouch contemplates taking the lieutenant exam. Another prominent storyline is of Severide with his half-brother, Jack Damon. Stella's decision to put Damon back in the floater pool put a strain on their relationship, but they made amends when Severide decided to put in a good word for Damon at his new firehouse.
Paramedic Violet Mikami's career was in jeopardy when she performed an off-protocol medical procedure leading to the suspension of her license. The new Chief came to her rescue by speaking to Lieutenant Vale. Her license was reinstated by the end of episode 4.
This season also includes the show's signature comic relief moments, such as Mouch’s humorous conflict with a bird in episode 6. The season continues to explore the show's prominent themes of loyalty and ambition through the characters, keeping it interesting for long-time fans.
Catch the latest episode of Chicago Fire on Peacock.
