Back in April 2025, it was announced that Fire Country would be undergoing a major cast shake-up ahead of its fourth season. In a surprise move, two original main cast members, Stephanie Arcila and Billy Burke, were revealed not to be returning after the show's third season. This shocked fans as the series had maintained its original core cast since the pilot. Naturally, this sparked widespread curiosity about the reasons behind their departure, and surprisingly, not even the actors themselves were fully prepared for the news.
Stephanie Arcila has played the role of Gabriela Perez, a Cal Fire firefighter and paramedic, since the show's start. Viewers also know Gabriela for her on-again, off-again relationship with Bode Leone (Max Thieriot). In a recent interview with ScreenRant, the talented actress behind the Gabriela character opened up about the moment she learned she was being cut from the cast, as well as shared her reaction.
She explained that she received the upsetting news that she would not be returning as a main cast member right when the show was renewed for a fourth season back in February 2025. She shared that her initial reaction was one of shock, as she had no idea it was coming. Still, despite the suddenness of it all, she acknowledged that it’s part of the nature of the industry and expressed gratitude for having the opportunity to say her goodbyes to the cast and crew while they were still filming.
"I think I was in shock because I had no idea, and at the same time, this is the industry that we're in. This is the nature of our industry. So I also understand and at the same time had peace with it and was also just really grateful that it was while we were filming still so that I could have my goodbyes."
When asked by ScreenRant if she would be appearing in Fire Country season 4 in any capacity, Arcila gave a disappointing but honest response. She shared that she doesn't know if she'll be back at all. That said, fans can only hope that the show’s writers find a way to bring her character back, even if just for a brief cameo, so Gabriela’s story isn’t left unfinished and loyal viewers get a chance to say goodbye properly.
Gabriela is still alive and well at the end of the season 3 finale, so we deserve at least some explanation or follow-up to her storyline in season 4, rather than having her exit feel abrupt or unresolved. Fingers crossed!
Regarding what's next for Arcila following her exit from Fire Country, no known projects are currently in the works. However, Arcila told ScreenRant that she'd love to get back into doing movies and even be a part of an anime. Whatever she decides to do next, I'm sure fans will be excited to see her take on new roles and continue showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Fire Country is confirmed to start airing its fourth season on CBS this fall. Stay tuned to GeekSided for the premiere date!
