Marlyne Barrett is stepping back from Chicago Med after an incredible 10-year run. The beloved actress played Charge Nurse Maggie Lockwood since the show’s debut in 2015. She announced her departure on Aug. 28, 2025. The decision came for personal reasons, though it’s considered temporary.
Kara Brown loses Jeopardy thriller, stumped by Harper Lee clue in dramatic final
Kara Brown loses Jeopardy thriller to Harrison Whitaker, all three contestants stumped by Final question
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Marlyne Barrett exits Chicago Med after portraying Maggie Lockwood for a decade
- Departure announced in late August 2025 due to personal reasons
- Season 11 premiered on Oct. 1, 2025 without her character
- Only 2 original cast members remain: S. Epatha Merkerson and Oliver Platt
- Return timeline remains uncertain, but showrunner expressed hope for her comeback
What Led to Her Exit
The acting powerhouse stepped away from the hit NBC drama for undisclosed personal reasons. Showrunner Allen MacDonald confirmed the departure publicly in late August. He revealed they’re hopeful she’ll return during the season.
Jasleen Singh fires back at podcast critics, calls out ‘cockroaches’ in viral controversy
Aakash Singh’s wife Jasleen fires back at online drama, defends podcast past
In real life, Barrett disclosed her uterine and ovarian cancer diagnosis back in July 2022. She underwent 30 rounds of chemotherapy plus surgery. Her cancer eventually went into remission in July 2024. The actress has been remarkably open about her health journey with fans.
“We hope to see her at some point this season, but that remains uncertain at the moment. When Marlyne told us she wanted to step away, we respected that. She had to do so for personal reasons.”
How the Show Addressed Her Absence
Chicago Med’s Season 11 premiere titled “We All Fall Down” aired on Oct. 1, 2025. The episode handled her departure subtly. Maggie is only mentioned briefly in passing conversations.
Sharon Goodwin (S. Epatha Merkerson) and Dr. Charles (Oliver Platt) discuss her absence casually. Goodwin says she hasn’t heard from Maggie. Later, new nurse Doris vows to keep her seat warm. This approach leaves the door open for Barrett’s eventual return whenever she’s ready.
| Timeline Detail | Date |
| Cancer diagnosis announced | July 2022 |
| Completed chemotherapy and surgery | By mid-2023 |
| Entered complete remission | July 2024 |
| Exit announcement | August 28, 2025 |
| Season 11 premiere without her | October 1, 2025 |
What’s Next for the Character?
The show’s creative team is keeping things mysterious about Maggie’s future. MacDonald confirmed the intent isn’t to write her off permanently. They’re intentionally avoiding detailed explanations now.
This strategy protects potential storylines for her return. Maggie remains beloved by fans as a core Gaffney Medical character. Her close friendship with Dr. John Frost (Darren Barnet) developed significantly in Season 10. That relationship could resurface when she comes back.
The character has been the show’s heart since 2015. She worked as a charge nurse and trusted ally to hospital leadership. Her absence is deeply felt by remaining cast members shown on screen.
The Bigger Picture for Chicago Med
- Original cast members shrinking: Only S. Epatha Merkerson and Oliver Platt remain
- New cast additions: Darren Barnet and Sarah Ramos joined for Season 10
- Guest star return: Nick Gehlfuss (Dr. Will Halstead) returning in Season 11
- Franchise stability: All three “One Chicago” shows continue strong on NBC
- Viewership concerns: Fans worried about losing another original character
When Will She Return?
That’s the million-dollar question fans are asking right now. No official return date exists as of Nov. 15, 2025. MacDonald said it “remains uncertain at the moment.”
Speculations range from mid-season comeback to a Season 12 return. The NBC drama won’t rush the actress back. Her health and wellbeing come first for producers. Barrett has shown incredible resilience through her cancer journey.
Fans should watch upcoming episodes closely for any hints about Maggie’s whereabouts. The show is leaving breadcrumbs for observant viewers. Will she take a new job elsewhere? Is this a temporary break? Time will tell.
For now, Chicago Med moves forward with a modified ensemble. The void left by Marlyne Barrett’s departure reminds everyone how crucial she was. Maggie Lockwood defined nursing excellence on the show for a solid decade.
Watch the full breakdown of her exit below:
Sources
- Deadline – Exclusive coverage of her temporary leave and on-screen handling
- Variety – Official announcement and career timeline analysis
- NBC – Chicago Med premiere details and showrunner statements
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.