10 Biggest Unanswered Questions & Mysteries After The Chicago Fire Season 13 Finale
The Season 13 finale of Chicago Fire was a masterclass in emotional storytelling, a thrilling hour that resolved some of the season’s biggest mysteries while leaving a handful of new ones in its wake. From surprise romantic confessions to shocking career changes, the episode ensured that Firehouse 51 will never be the same. While the finale gave us a sense of closure on some fronts, it left fans with a long list of pressing, unanswered questions that will define the show’s highly anticipated 14th season.
The show’s writers have once again proven that they are experts at crafting suspense and building anticipation. They’ve laid the groundwork for a new season filled with fresh challenges, personal conflicts, and the unpredictable life-or-death situations that define the series. Here are the 10 biggest unanswered questions and mysteries we need answered when Chicago Fire returns.
1. Will Stellaride’s Family Dream Become a Reality?
In the finale’s most emotional moment, Stella Kidd gave Kelly Severide a positive pregnancy test. This was a stunning twist for a couple who had spent the season grappling with the idea of starting a family, going so far as to nearly adopt a teenager. The biggest question now is whether the pregnancy is a sure thing and what the reality of having a child will mean for a couple who both have incredibly dangerous jobs. Showrunner Andrea Newman has already hinted at the stress this will put on their relationship, especially with Stella’s past trauma of losing her own parents at a young age. Their journey will be a central and emotional theme of the new season.
2. Can Carver and Violet’s Romance Survive a Long-Distance Relationship?
The finale’s most heartbreaking mystery revolves around the future of Carver and Violet’s relationship. Carver announced he was leaving for Denver to maintain his sobriety, but in the final moments, he professed his love for Violet and they shared a passionate kiss. The question is, will he still go? If he does, can a long-distance romance between a firefighter in Denver and a paramedic in Chicago actually work? Their relationship has been a bumpy but compelling ride, and fans are desperate to know if this is the start of a beautiful love story or a tragic farewell.
3. What Was the Real Reason for Ritter’s Exit?
While Carver’s exit was left on a cliffhanger, the departure of fan-favorite Darren Ritter was never formally addressed in the finale. The news of Daniel Kyri’s departure came as a shock to the fandom, but with no on-screen explanation, it leaves a huge, unresolved question. How will the show explain his absence? Will he be transferred, or will he have a tragic ending? Ritter has been a pillar of the show’s emotional core since his introduction, and his departure without a proper send-off is the most frustrating mystery left by the finale.
4. Is Christopher Herrmann Truly Satisfied with His Demotion?
In a stunning act of self-sacrifice, Herrmann gave up his Lieutenant position so his best friend Mouch could finally achieve his dream. It was a beautiful moment of friendship, but it raises a lot of questions. Herrmann voluntarily took a pay cut, a significant financial hit for a man with a large family to support. Will he truly be happy as a regular firefighter, or will he come to regret his decision? This mystery will be a major source of personal conflict for Herrmann and will test the dynamics of his relationship with Mouch.
5. Can Chief Pascal Ever Truly Fill Boden’s Shoes?
With Wallace Boden’s promotion to Deputy Commissioner, Chief Dom Pascal was cleared of all charges and is now officially in command of Firehouse 51. The biggest question is whether he can ever truly earn the respect and loyalty that Boden commanded. Pascal is a different kind of leader, more reserved and less of a father figure. The firehouse has always been a family, and Pascal’s leadership style may not fit that mold. Can he truly take over a family he hasn’t been a part of for very long, or will his new role be a source of constant tension?
6. Will Mouch Be a Good Lieutenant?
After years of being a beloved senior firefighter, Mouch is now a Lieutenant, a position he has always dreamed of. While he is experienced and respected, being a Lieutenant comes with its own set of pressures and responsibilities. The question is, can Mouch handle the increased stress of leadership? Will his new role change the dynamics with his close friends on Truck 81?
7. What’s Next for the Character of Jack Damon?
The finale’s “huge shake-up” also included the departure of newcomer Jack Damon, played by Michael Bradway. While his exit was less of a shock to fans, it still leaves an unanswered question about his future. Will he simply be mentioned as a transfer, or will his story receive some kind of closure? The fate of a character who seemed to have a lot of potential is now a major mystery.
8. How Will the Departmental Budget Cuts Impact the Firehouse?
The subplot about the city’s impending budget cuts was left unresolved in the finale. With several characters already leaving, the biggest fear for fans is that these cuts will continue to chip away at the Firehouse 51 family. The question is, will the threat of layoffs become a central plot point in Season 14, forcing the crew to fight not just fires, but for their very jobs?
9. Will Ritter’s Dog, Tuesday, Be Safe?
For many fans, this is the most pressing question of all. With Ritter’s departure and no formal send-off, what will happen to his beloved dog, Tuesday? Will she be adopted by another member of Firehouse 51? Will she just disappear with no explanation? The well-being of the show’s furry companion is a small but important mystery that needs to be addressed.
10. Can Firehouse 51’s Family Dynamic Survive All This Change?
Perhaps the biggest overarching question of all is whether the core identity of Firehouse 51 can survive such a massive amount of change. With Boden’s departure, a new Chief, and the exits of multiple members of the team, the show’s most sacred dynamic—the idea that the firehouse is a family—will be tested like never before. The answer to this question will determine the direction of the show for years to come.
