Why Marlyne Barrett Is Leaving Chicago Med After 10 Years as Maggie Lockwood

Marlyne Barrett is leaving her role on the hit NBC drama Chicago Med. The actress portrayed Charge Nurse Maggie Lockwood for a decade. Her departure was announced in late August 2025.

Showrunner Allen MacDonald confirmed the news. He stated the leave is temporary and for personal reasons. The show hopes for her return later in the season.

Behind the Decision to Step Away

Barrett’s exit stems from undisclosed personal matters. According to Deadline, the production team fully supported her decision. They are leaving the door open for Maggie’s character.

The actress has been open about her health journey in the past. She publicly battled uterine and ovarian cancer starting in 2022. She entered remission in July 2024 after intensive treatment.

Her resilience has been widely admired by fans and colleagues. The Chicago Med family respects her need for privacy now. The show will not recast the iconic role.

Maggie Lockwood’s On-Screen Absence Explained

Season 11 premiered on October 1, 2025, without Maggie. The episode handled her absence with subtlety. She was mentioned in dialogue between other characters.

Sharon Goodwin noted she hadn’t heard from Maggie recently. A new nurse character promised to keep Maggie’s seat warm. This approach allows for a seamless return storyline.

Only two original cast members now remain. S. Epatha Merkerson and Oliver Platt continue their roles. The dynamic at Gaffney Chicago Medical Center has shifted.

Fan Reaction and Future Possibilities

Longtime viewers expressed concern on social media. Many hope for Barrett’s speedy return. Her character is a fan favorite and the heart of the emergency department.

Maggie’s friendship with Dr. Frost developed significantly last season. That relationship provides a strong narrative thread for her comeback. The writers are keeping future plot details confidential.

The One Chicago franchise continues its successful run on NBC. All three shows were renewed for the 2025-2026 season. The universe remains strong despite cast changes.

The Chicago Med team and fans worldwide send their support to Marlyne Barrett during this time. Her portrayal of Maggie Lockwood remains an integral part of the show’s legacy. The character’s temporary absence leaves a noticeable void in the emergency department.

Thought you’d like to know

Is Marlyne Barrett leaving Chicago Med permanently?

No, her departure is currently temporary. Showrunner Allen MacDonald expressed hope for her return this season. The storyline allows for Maggie to come back at any time.

What character did Marlyne Barrett play?

She portrayed Charge Nurse Maggie Lockwood since the show’s 2015 debut. Maggie was the competent and compassionate backbone of the ED. She served as a trusted confidante to many doctors.

How many original cast members remain?

Only two original cast members are still on the show. S. Epatha Merkerson (Sharon Goodwin) and Oliver Platt (Dr. Daniel Charles) continue their roles. Several major characters have departed over ten seasons.

When did Marlyne Barrett announce her cancer remission?

She announced her cancer was in remission in July 2024. She had been diagnosed with uterine and ovarian cancer in 2022. Barrett underwent chemotherapy and surgery during her treatment.

Will Maggie Lockwood be written out of the show?

The character has not been written out permanently. The producers are intentionally avoiding a definitive exit storyline. This preserves narrative flexibility for Barrett’s potential return.

Has Chicago Med been renewed for another season?

Yes, NBC renewed all three One Chicago shows for the 2025-2026 season. This includes Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D. The franchise remains a ratings success for the network.