The Real Reason Fans Wanted To See Emily Foster Return In Chicago Fire

Annie Ilonzeh, who played the beloved character Emily Foster on "Chicago Fire," was only on the show for a short period of time, but fans became attached to her (via Distractify). She was added to the cast shortly after her recurring role, which replaced Gabby Dawson, became popular.

Playing Sylvie Brett's partner on the ambulance in Firehouse 51, Foster's character pulled on fans' heartstrings (via Showbiz Cheat Sheet). Her short two-season stint ended on a positive note. Foster applied for medical school and when she failed to return after season 8 came to a close, fans assumed she must have gotten the residency.

The truth is, there was a contract issue between Ilonzeh and the show. Since her contract was not renewed, she was written off the show. Fans were heartbroken but hopeful that she would return given her new medical internship. Why were fans so passionate about Foster returning to "Chicago Fire?"

Fans are hopeful that Foster will return to the "One Chicago" universe in some capacity (via Distractify). Maybe she would be returning on a different show, like "Chicago Med," given her new medical internship. However, fans were most passionate about her returning to the "Chicago Fire" family.

One of the reasons fans were so passionate about Foster's return is her relationship with Brett. The pair worked together on the ambulance and had formed a tight bond. One fan tweeted, "Kelly [and] Stella are so sweet together also I forgot that Foster was gone ... hope Brett [and] Gianna are ok #ChicagoFire."

The good news for fans is Foster will be featured somewhat in the upcoming season. Showrunner Derek Haas told TVLine that when "Chicago Fire" returns on Wednesday, Nov. 11, it will be "a few months later" in the show and "Foster has gone off to medical school at Northwestern." Haas shared, "We will hear some updates about how she's doing as the season progresses."