An Unsettling Silence: The Curious Case of Carver’s Absence in Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 20
Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 20, like many episodes in a long-running ensemble drama, saw a few familiar faces absent from the bustling activity of Firehouse 51. Shifts change, personal days are taken, and storylines occasionally sideline characters to focus on others. However, the conspicuous absence of one particular firefighter in this episode feels particularly bizarre and even unsettling when viewed through the lens of their established trajectory and what the future supposedly holds for Firehouse 51. That missing piece is Sam Carver, portrayed by Jake Lockett.
While the show has offered an in-universe explanation for Carver’s sporadic appearances – his ongoing recovery program following his relapse with alcohol – his continued absence in Episode 20, especially considering recent developments and the looming changes within Firehouse 51, strikes an odd and worrying chord. It’s not just a case of a character being off-screen; it feels like a significant narrative thread being deliberately left dangling at a time when it should be actively being woven into the larger tapestry of the season.
The Lingering Shadow of Relapse: An Explanation That Feels Increasingly Thin
The explanation provided for Carver’s limited presence – that he is still completing a recovery program – was initially understandable. It provided a realistic consequence for his relapse and allowed for his absence without resorting to contrived storylines. However, as the season progresses, and with Episode 20 now aired, this explanation feels increasingly like a narrative crutch rather than a genuine exploration of his recovery journey.
We saw Carver return, albeit briefly, to assist Violet (Hanako Greensmith) in tracking down the unlicensed paramedic, suggesting a level of stability and reintegration. His subsequent absence in an understaffed Episode 20, despite Herrmann’s (David Eigenberg) casual mention of his continued treatment, feels jarring. If Firehouse 51 is struggling with manpower, wouldn’t a firefighter on the mend, presumably eager to return to duty, be a welcome addition, even in a limited capacity?
A Missed Opportunity: Carver’s Absence Amidst Firehouse 51’s Evolution
What makes Carver’s absence in Episode 20 so bizarre is the context of Firehouse 51’s future. We know, through reports, that both Carver and Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri) are slated to depart the series after Season 13 due to budget cuts. This knowledge casts a significant shadow over their remaining storylines.
Given this impending exit, Episode 20 felt like a missed opportunity to provide meaningful development for Carver, especially in relation to his burgeoning and recently rekindled connection with Violet. Their tentative steps towards a romantic reconciliation were a significant storyline in the earlier part of the season, offering a potential new central romance for the show in the wake of Casey and Brett’s departure. To have Carver absent during a crucial episode, with limited time left to explore this relationship before his exit, feels like a disservice to this narrative thread and to the viewers who were invested in it.
The Worrying Implications: What Does Carver’s Absence Signal?
Carver’s continued absence, despite the window for his character’s send-off rapidly closing, raises worrying questions about his ultimate fate on the show:
A Rushed and Unsatisfying Exit:
The most immediate concern is that Carver’s departure will feel rushed and unearned. If he remains largely off-screen for the remaining episodes, his eventual exit will lack the emotional weight and narrative closure that a character who has been part of Firehouse 51 for three seasons deserves.
A Tragic Setback in His Recovery:
Another, more somber possibility is that Carver’s continued absence hints at a setback in his recovery. While the show briefly touched upon his struggles with alcoholism, a deeper exploration of this journey, particularly in his final episodes, could have provided a powerful and resonant storyline. His absence might suggest a less hopeful outcome for his sobriety.
A Narrative Convenience for Budgetary Reasons:
The cynical view is that Carver’s absence is purely a logistical decision driven by the reported budget cuts. Keeping him off-screen reduces his episode count and thus his cost. However, this approach sacrifices narrative integrity and leaves a significant storyline feeling unresolved and ultimately unsatisfying for the audience.
The Contrast with Ritter’s Presence: A Stark Disparity
The bizarreness of Carver’s absence is further amplified by the continued presence and development of Darren Ritter, the other firefighter reportedly leaving after this season. Ritter has been actively involved in recent episodes, even taking in Sylvie Novak as a roommate, suggesting a more organic and integrated send-off for his character.
This stark contrast between Ritter’s ongoing storyline and Carver’s near-invisibility raises questions about the narrative priorities and the reasons behind Carver’s seemingly sidelined status in his final stretch on the show.
Conclusion: A Lingering Question Mark Over Carver’s Firehouse 51 Future
The absence of Sam Carver in Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 20 feels particularly jarring and bizarre when considered in the context of his established storylines and the impending changes within Firehouse 51 due to his reported departure. While an in-universe explanation exists for his limited presence, his continued absence, especially amidst an understaffed firehouse and his rekindled romance with Violet, feels like a missed narrative opportunity and raises worrying questions about the nature and satisfaction of his eventual exit. As the season nears its conclusion, Carver’s silent absence serves as an unsettling reminder of potentially unresolved storylines and a less-than-ideal farewell for a character who had the potential to be a significant part of Firehouse 51’s future.
