"Our Show Is About Community and Redemption": 'Fire Country' Cast Doesn't Know How Gabriela Will Be Written Out of Season 4

As Fire Country fans anticipate the premiere of Season 4, there is some sad news to contend with. Billy Burke and Stephanie Arcila won't return as series regulars. With the former, the Season 3 finale hinted at a potential exit storyline, but with Arcila's Gabriela, no such storyline was introduced. The news of Arcila's impending departure was "such a shocker," her costar Kevin Alejandro told TV Line. And regarding how she'll be written out? “Honestly, it’s a mystery to all of us,” Alejandro said. “The finale ends with so many questions… anything in the universe could happen [with Gabriela],” he added.

"I just know that the presence will be missed, and we’ll see how the community heals [from the Zebel Ridge fire],” the actor continued. "Our show is about community and redemption and getting through circumstances together, and I feel that as a cast and as a show, we’re going to do that.” Diane Farr remained strengthened by the fact that Arcila will be "invited back." "We’re hoping that we can bring that character back, because we think that [Bode and Gabriela,] they have such great chemistry, and the audience is really invested in the two of them," EP Tony Phelan said when asked if Season 3 was it for the character.

Could Gabriela Return to Edgewater in Future 'Fire Country' Seasons?

Depending on how the character is written out, Gabriela's future on the show could be at risk. However, it is consoling that the show's creative team has strongly communicated that she will return at some point. "We hope to see her back very soon, to give her a proper not goodbye, but see you later. In the epic love story of Bode and Gabriela, sometimes it’s very useful for a longing, to miss her, to miss them, to really crave seeing them on screen together, whatever they mean to each other. It’s part of long-arc, character-driven storytelling. We love her, and we’re all excited to see her on screen again," showrunner Tia Napolitano explained to Deadline.

News of Gabriela's departure came as a surprise to Arcila, too, but she has not closed the door on Fire Country. “You know, I never say never, and I believe that,” she said. “Having this news come out has really shown me how people feel about Gabriela, and I had no idea. And it’s been so heartwarming to have all of that support," Arcila added, confirming that she is open to returning whenever the story demands it