Jim Parrack opens up about Sierra McClain's exit from 911: Lone Star

As Judd begins a new journey on 911: Lone Star, Jim Parrack is opening up on the surprise exit of Sierra McClain from the series!

Caution: This article contains SPOILERS for 911: Lone Star Season 5 Episode 3

In the conclusion of the epic three-part Season 5 premiere of 911: Lone Star, the 126 dealt with a deadly cloud of gas and a train collision. That had everyone in danger, with Paul helping a trapped driver while Marjan was exposed to toxins, but okay. Tommy and others were in danger but thankfully okay, while Judd showed up from his new job as a driver to help out.

At the station, Owen announced that Judd was returning to the team…not as lieutenant but rather as a probie. He was about to announce who had the lieutenant job but Marjan spoke up to say that Paul taking a chance on helping the driver proved he was better for the job and stepped down. So Paul became the lieutenant, and Owen whispered something to Marjan (maybe that he was always going to pick Paul?)

Speaking to TVLine, Jim Parrack discussed how Judd now has to handle being the “rookie” on the team and the fun of how the others can haze their former boss.

"I thought it was cool when they told me that this was their idea. I looked it up. If you transfer from somewhere else and you haven’t retired, you get to keep your status. But if you retire and come back, you’ve got to start at the bottom. Above all, I like that it’s how real firefighters would have to deal with things."

It was clear Judd wasn’t dealing well with being out of the firefighting life and eager to get back in any way. That includes how he’s dealing with a huge absence in his life, which pertains to Parrack as well.

How is Parrack feeling about Sierra McClain being gone from 911: Lone Star?

911: Lone Star fans were stunned at the news that Sierra McClain had left the series before Season 5. It’s a big blow as Grace and Judd were a fine couple on the show. It’s also awkward for storytelling as it means Grace had to leave both her young child and Judd welcoming his wheelchair-bound son Wyatt. 

The season 5 premiere explained Grace had left to do missionary work with Judd understanding but missing her. Parrack told TV Line that’s not much different than what he feels in real life. 

"I love and respect her so much. She’s such a good, high-integrity human being. I said, ‘Look, trust yourself and do whatever you think is best.’ There was no part of me, on a human level or a friend level, that would talk her out of an important decision like that. Of course I was like, ‘Damn, that’s one of the best acting partners I’ve ever had, and now I’m going to be without her."

Parrack hints that while Judd seems okay, the loss of Grace, helping Wyatt, and starting at the bottom rung of the ladder at the 126 is going to add more pressure that could break. 

"If we’re not actively looking to root it out, it doesn’t take much for us to develop [resentment] within ourselves. And it seems like it does the most damage with the people that we love. Stay tuned, because Judd might have to face some of that coming up."

So it appears Grace’s departure is going to keep weighing on Judd for a while as he starts a new direction on 911: Lone Star’s final year.

911: Lone Star Season 5 airs Mondays at 8/7c on Fox.