Say Goodbye to Maggie: Marlyne Barrett Exits Chicago Med Ahead of Season 11

In what fans are calling a gut punch to the heart, Marlyne Barrett — aka the fierce and fabulous Nurse Maggie Lockwood — is stepping back from the hit NBC medical drama. Yes, you read that right. After a decade of running the ED with backbone and compassion, Barrett is exiting the series just before the new season premieres. Cue the dramatic music.

Why Marlyne Barrett Is Leaving Chicago Med

According to multiple sources, including TV Insider and People, Marlyne Barrett is exiting her role for personal reasons. Before you panic-text your group chat, it’s important to note this isn't being billed as a forever goodbye. Barrett is reportedly taking a step back rather than slamming the Chicago Med doors shut behind her. But still, for a character as central as Nurse Lockwood, her absence is going to hit hard.

The End of an Era for OG Fans

With Barrett gone, that leaves only S Epatha Merkerson and Oliver Platt holding down the original cast fort. For longtime viewers, this is basically watching your favorite band slowly lose its original members. It hurts.

Barrett has been a cornerstone of Chicago Med since its debut in 2015. Her no-nonsense attitude and deeply human approach to nursing made Maggie one of the most beloved and respected characters in the entire One Chicago universe. So yeah, this departure matters.

What’s Next for Season 11 of Chicago Med

Season 11 is set to premiere on October 1, 2025, and while we may not have Maggie, we do have a bit of good news. Nick Gehlfuss is making a guest return as Dr. Will Halstead. So at least there’s that.

The Bottom Line

Marlyne Barrett stepping back from Chicago Med is major news for fans who’ve watched her hold the chaos together in the emergency department for 10 seasons. While the door seems open for a return, the loss is still going to sting. Whether it’s temporary or not, we’ll miss the heartbeat that was Nurse Maggie Lockwood.

Ready to rant or reminisce? Drop your favorite Maggie moment and let’s mourn this properly. Chicago Med just won’t be the same without her.