“9-1-1: Lone Star Finale Teaser! Showrunner Reveals Sierra McClain’s Fate”

As the series 9-1-1: Lone Star approaches its conclusion, enthusiasts of the show are left desiring a final narrative arc for a beloved character who has been part of the journey since its inception.

Co-showrunner Rashad Raisani shared that actress Sierra McClain will not return as 9-1-1 dispatcher Grace Ryder for the show’s final episode on February 3, 2025. McClain’s departure came about after contract renewal discussions fell through in June.

“Not for lack of effort,” Raisani commented to TVLine regarding the attempts made to bring McClain back to the finale.

Earlier in the fifth and concluding season, Grace’s departure was justified when her spouse, firefighter Judd (Jim Parrack), mentioned that she was engaged in missionary endeavors with the real-life Christian charity Mercy Ships. This organization operates hospital ships globally, offering vital surgical procedures.

“The only scenario I could envision that would pull Grace away from her family was this divine purpose, which has always been integral to her character,” Raisani had previously explained to Entertainment Weekly. “I felt this was the optimal way to both safeguard and pay tribute to her character.”

Raisani further mentioned, “I also thought it would present an interesting challenge for Judd, finding himself in a complex emotional state. He’s not exactly abandoned, but his wife has left for a noble cause. It places him in a position of loneliness mixed with frustration, though he is not overtly angry—or at least he doesn’t consciously acknowledge his anger. We explore this dynamic further as the season progresses.”

With Grace away, Judd finds solace by reconnecting with his adult son Wyatt, portrayed by Jackson Pace. Wyatt has been elevated to a main cast member in Season 5, stepping into his mother’s previous role at the call center.

The midseason finale of 9-1-1: Lone Star is scheduled to broadcast on Monday, December 2 at 8/7c on Fox.