Stephanie Arcila Addresses Gabriela & Bode’s Relationship Following Fire Country Exit

Stephanie Arcila, who plays Gabriela Perez, is exiting Fire Country as a series regular ahead of season 4, leaving many fans wondering what comes next for her character's relationship with Bode Leone. Bode and Gabriela's dynamic was a focal point in the first three seasons of the CBS action drama series. It was also a source of conflict, as the two have a contentious history. However, Bode and Gabriela's chemistry and attraction towards one another couldn't be denied, which is why they were so drawn to each other. They could never get the timing right, though.

During an interview with ScreenRant's Rachel Foertsch, Arcila spoke about the state of Bode and Gabriela's relationship following the Fire Country season 3 finale. Now that Gabriela will be gone (at least, as a main character), it's unclear what comes next for her and Bode. It also doesn't help that, as Foertsch pointed out, Bode and Gabriela's story feels unfinished. So, the mystery of whether they are truly endgame or not remains unsolved. Check out Arcila's quote below:

ScreenRant: Gabriela's story with Bode doesn't feel quite finished yet. Given how complicated it is, do you feel that it's one of those, "It shouldn't be this hard," situations or do you think that they really are meant to be together?

Stephanie Arcila: I think that they'll always have love for each other. It is healthy to not rush into things. It is healthy to explore other avenues as well and explore yourself. They've had so many changes and shifts in their lives that they already have to navigate, and I think in finding themselves and knowing who they are in these new dynamics and having that breather is also a good thing.

What Stephanie Arcila's Comments Mean For Bode & Gabriela's Future In Fire Country

Could Bode & Gabriela Reunite One Day?

Arcila's statement was rather vague about Bode and Gabriela's future in Fire Country. Yes, the actress is leaving, but that doesn't mean her character will be gone for good. The last episode didn't end with a scene that gave the former couple closure. So, the door is open for Arcila to reprise her role as Gabriela in future episodes of the CBS action drama TV show, meaning that there is still hope that she and Bode will get back together in the future.

Following the events of the Fire Country season 3 finale, though, Bode and Gabriela's romance is on pause indefinitely. However, as Arcila suggested, having some time apart could be good for Bode and Gabriela. Consequently, if Gabriela ever returns and she and Bode have reached a place where they're ready for a relationship with one another, perhaps Fire Country can end with Bode and Gabriela in a healthy, loving relationship. They both still need to do a lot of work on themselves before that can happen, though.

Our Take On Bode & Gabriela's Relationship In Fire Country

It's Time For Fire Country To Move On From Bode & Gabriela (For Now)

Whereas Bode and Gabriela could realistically rekindle their romance one day in Fire Country, their relationship might also be over for good. Whatever the case, they can't and shouldn't get back together now. Bode is exploring a relationship with Audrey James, and since Gabriela is leaving, she is likely going to take some time to better herself. They aren't ready to be together, which is why the show must move on from Bode and Gabriela. Maybe that will change in the future, but for now, it's for the best that Bode and Gabriela are separated in Fire Country.

Fire Country returns with season 4 in the fall of 2025, airing new episodes on Fridays at 9 pm ET on CBS, following the new spinoff Sheriff Country at 8 pm ET.