Was that lazy writing or an actual character’s flaw? You decide.
It’s no secret that Gabriela Dawson’s departure was one of the most hated moments throughout the whole of the Chicago Fire. Although it was needed for the story progression, as the actress, Monica Raymund, was leaving the show, the manner in which it was performed left a poor taste in fans’ mouths.
Not that it wasn’t in character at all, some may argue. From the very beginning, Gaby seemed to be quite annoying to the good half of the fandom, and there is actually a very good explanation that goes well with her leaving Chicago for good. Gabriela Dawson always wanted the things she couldn’t have, and once she got it, she lost interest. This happened on several accounts, too many to not be perceived as repetitive behavior. At the very beginning, her interest lay in Matthew Casey, a firefighter who was already happily engaged to his fiance.
For a good couple of seasons, both Gabriela and the viewers were excited by the perspective of a workplace relationship. Once that works out, Dawson starts to seek another target. She decides to become a firefighter, which throws shade on her relationship with Casey, as they’re not allowed to work together. Although her dedication is admirable, the viewers start to lose focus on what were the character’s priorities, as the relationship with her fiance does not seem as important anymore. If anything, it feels like she’s ready to sacrifice it for her career.
Which is a valid choice, but doesn’t line up with anything the viewers have seen of her before. The priorities seem to change again once Dawson finds out she’s pregnant with Matt’s child and decides to stop her work as the firefighter. At this point the audience finds themselves caring very little about her as they know she’ll probably change her mind again. Although she doesn’t get a chance to birth her own child due to miscarriage, she decides to foster a kid. Once again, sacrificing the relationship with Matt.
The pattern has repeated itself to the point where Gabriela Dawson decided to run away from all her issues rather than face them. Although the ending was infuriating for many, it was in fact very fitting and logical to the flawed character that Gabriela was.
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