Jake Lockett, who portrays firefighter Sam Carver on NBC's 'Chicago Fire,' has announced his departure from the series at the end of season 13. This decision coincides with budget cuts that may also reduce the number of episodes for the upcoming season 14. Lockett, who joined the show in season 11 and became a series regular by season 13, expressed gratitude towards his co-stars and fans in a heartfelt Instagram post. He shared a compilation video celebrating his time on set and the relationships he formed, indicating the deep camaraderie with his fellow cast and crew. Lockett's departure is not an isolated event, as other cast members are also set to leave at the end of the current season.

Jake Lockett is set to leave 'Chicago Fire' at the end of season 13, where he plays the character Sam Carver. His exit was announced amid budget cuts that threaten to shorten the number of episodes for season 14.

Lockett joined the show in season 11 as a recurring character and was promoted to a series regular by season 13, marking a significant role throughout his tenure on the show.

In an Instagram post, Lockett expressed his mixed feelings about leaving, acknowledging that while the future is uncertain, his past experiences on the show have been incredibly fulfilling and memorable.

He shared a video compilation with his co-stars, emphasizing the strong bonds and cherished memories he created with the cast and crew, whom he considers family.

The actor thanked his fans and colleagues for their support over the past three years and hinted at the possibility of sharing more memories in the future.

Lockett's departure is part of a broader trend, as he is not the only actor leaving 'Chicago Fire' at the end of the season, suggesting changes are underway for the show.

His announcement reveals the personal and professional impact of his time on 'Chicago Fire,' highlighting the pride he takes in his work and the relationships formed during the production.

Jake Lockett is saying goodbye to Chicago Fire.

Earlier this month, it was announced that the 40-year-old actor, who plays firefighter Sam Carver, will be leaving the NBC drama series at the end of season 13.

In a new Instagram post shared on Monday (April 28), Jake broke his silence on his exit.

Keep reading to find out more…“While I don’t exactly know what the future looks like, I do know that it won’t be exactly what it was and I am going to miss the hell out of that. So much pride in this journey,” Jake wrote along with a compilation video of footage with his co-stars on set.

“It’s been an honor bringing Sam to life and to every one of you, thank you for the love and support over the past three years,” Jake continued. “And most importantly, the people that I was on the ground with day and night… thank you for the family you are and times you have been and will be there for me. If you’re not in one of these clips, there will be more to follow. So many cherished memories.”

Jake first joined Chicago Fire in season 11 in a recurring role. He got bumped up to series regular status for season 13.

The exit is reportedly due to budget cuts, which could also lead to the NBC show getting fewer episodes for season 14.

Jake isn’t the only cast member leaving Chicago Fire at the end of the season.