“When everyone else is running away from danger, the men and women of Chicago Fire are running toward it.”  That tagline summarizes Season 3 of the NBC drama that gives an up-close view into the personal and professional lives of firefighters in America.  Alongside the usual cast, Tuesday’s episode will feature Clarksburg native and actress Emily Shaffer.

 

“It’s a very intense episode,” said Shaffer, who spent two weeks filming the episode in Chicago.  Although it’s technically part of Chicago Fire, this week’s show features a dangerous rescue that sends the squad to Chicago Med, where an explosive event leaves the whole city at risk.  The show serves as a pilot for a new series spinoff of Chicago Fire called Chicago Med.

 

The episode is called “I Am The Apocalypse” and deals with the medical team trying to stop a suicidal patient who is engaging an explosive device and claiming to carry a deadly airborne disease. 

 

“The shoot was exciting and intense.  I play Dr. Diane Claman in this week’s episode.  It’s a pivotal role in my career because if NBC chooses to pick up Chicago Med,  there’s a possibility of more appearances of Dr. Claman, whether as a series regular or a recurring character.”

 

Shaffer, who graduated from Robert C. Byrd High School in 2004, has been working in New York City for six years, honing her acting skills in such notable shows as “Covert Affairs,” “Epic Fall,” and “How to Make It In America.”  She also recently had a recurring role in NBC’s “Allegiance.” 

 

In addition to her small screen appearances, Shaffer has appeared on stage with various theater companies in West Virginia and New York City. 

 

Her father, Harrison County Prosecuting Attorney Joe Shaffer, expressed his excitement about the upcoming Chicago Fire episode.  “We are so proud of Emily and can’t wait to see her performance in this week’s episode.”

 

As for Emily, she has a message for the fans back home.  “All the support from Clarksburg and Bridgeport keeps me going.  I hope everyone likes the show!”  The episode of Chicago Fire will air on NBC at 10:00pm on Tuesday, April 7.

 

Read Connect-Bridgeport's earlier story about Shaffer HERE.