As the Fall 2024 TV season approaches, several popular shows are undergoing significant casting changes that are sure to impact their storylines and dynamics. Among the most notable are “Found,” “Chicago Fire,” and “FBI: International,” which are all experiencing shifts in their cast rosters.
The “One Chicago” franchise, which includes “Chicago Fire,” “Chicago Med,” and “Chicago P.D.,” has been particularly active in terms of casting updates. The franchise, created by Dick Wolf, has been a staple of NBC’s lineup since “Chicago Fire” debuted in 2012. This year, the franchise is seeing some familiar faces depart. Dominic Rains, who has portrayed Dr. Crockett Marcel on “Chicago Med” for the past five seasons, will not be returning for Season 10. Additionally, showrunners Diane Frolov and Andy Schneider have announced their exits, with Allen MacDonald stepping in as the new showrunner.
NBC’s president of program planning, Jeff Bader, commented on the ongoing changes, stating, “Cast comes in, cast goes out. It’s interesting. Because every year there are cast changes, and every year someone asks the same question. But [those shows] just keep going on.” This sentiment reflects the resilience of the franchise, which has continued to thrive despite the turnover.
“9-1-1: Lone Star” is another series facing changes as Sierra McClain, who has been a part of the show since its inception, will not return for Season 5. McClain’s character, Grace Ryder, has been a fan favorite, and her departure raises questions about how the show will address her exit. Speculation has also circulated regarding the future of the series, with some suggesting that Season 5 may be its last, although cast members have denied these claims.
In “Chicago Fire,” viewers can expect to see Dermot Mulroney join the cast as the new chief of the fire department, following Eamonn Walker’s departure. Additionally, Jocelyn Hudon will be promoted to a series regular, expanding her role in the show.
Meanwhile, “FBI: International” has also seen a significant change with the departure of Luke Kleintank, who played Supervisory Special Agent Scott Forrester since the show’s premiere. Fans were surprised to learn that Jesse Lee Soffer, known for his role as Jay Halstead in the “One Chicago” universe, will be joining the cast as Supervisory Special Agent Wesley “Wes” Mitchell.
The drama “Found” is gearing up for its second season, introducing new cast members Dionne Gipson, Michael Cassidy, and Danielle Savre in key roles. This fresh infusion of talent is expected to bring new dynamics to the show.
“Grey’s Anatomy,” a long-standing favorite, is also experiencing notable changes. Jake Borelli, who played Dr. Levi Schmitt, and Midori Francis, who portrayed Dr. Mika Yasuda, are set to leave the series in Season 21. However, fans can look forward to the return of Jason George as Ben Warren, who will be back in a full-time capacity.
In “Law & Order,” Maura Tierney is joining the cast as a new lieutenant, filling the void left by Camryn Manheim’s exit at the end of Season 23. This addition is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the series.
“S.W.A.T.” will see changes as well, with Shemar Moore’s character Hondo having less interaction with his wife Nichelle, as Rochelle Aytes will not be returning as a series regular for Season 8.
As the Fall 2024 season unfolds, fans of these beloved shows will need to adjust to the new faces and farewells. The casting updates reflect the ever-evolving nature of television, where change is a constant, and new stories are waiting to be told.
In addition to these major series, other shows are also making headlines with their casting updates. “Accused,” set to premiere on Fox, will feature a star-studded lineup, including Patrick J. Adams, Jerrika Hinton, and Justin Chambers, among others.
“All American” will see Daniel Ezra, who has played Spencer James since Season 1, not returning as a series regular for Season 7, although he is expected to make guest appearances.
The highly anticipated “And Just Like That…” will not see the return of Sara Ramírez and Karen Pittman for Season 3, but new cast members include Rosie O’Donnell and Mehcad Brooks.
“FBI: International” is set to welcome Jesse Lee Soffer as a new series regular, while “Found” will introduce Michael Cassidy and Danielle Savre in new roles.
“Grey’s Anatomy” will see the return of Jason George as Ben Warren, while Jake Borelli and Midori Francis will exit the series.
As the Fall 2024 TV season approaches, viewers can expect a mix of familiar faces and new talent, promising an exciting array of storylines and character developments. The landscape of television continues to evolve, and fans are eager to see how these changes will shape their favorite shows.
Source: TVLine, Deadline, Entertainment Weekly
