5 Key Storylines to Remember Before Chicago Fire Season 13 Returns in 2025
With the departure of Chief Wallace Boden last year, Firehouse 51 has been shaken up and everyone has had to adjust to new leadership. The introduction of Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) has left many of the firefighters questioning his leadership style, especially due to his questionable reputation in Miami. Meanwhile, other long-standing members of the team, such as Herrmann and Mouch, are stepping up to challenge themselves in new roles. But the chaos doesn’t stop there! Several characters are also dealing with personal struggles, making for a gripping continuation of Season 13.
1. Cruz Is Haunted By An Old Case
Joe Cruz has had a relatively quiet time in Season 13, but things take a dark turn when he becomes the target of a mysterious man seeking vengeance. This man is taunting Cruz, blaming him for the death of a gang leader in a fire from Season 1. As this personal dilemma unfolds, it puts not only Cruz’s work but his family life at risk. The haunting from his past is set to have a major impact on the second half of Season 13, affecting his relationship with his wife and son as the threats escalate.
2. Novak’s Tragic Past Begins to Unravel
Paramedic Lizzie Novak has always been the upbeat, energetic member of the team, but Season 13 starts to show her vulnerable side. After a tragic incident involving a man attempting suicide, Novak’s emotional response hints at a much darker past. Flashbacks and hints about her troubled childhood have started to emerge, and Season 13 could be the key to finally understanding the full extent of her personal struggles. Will Novak find a way to overcome her demons as the story progresses?
3. Carver & Violet’s Complicated Relationship
The breakup between Carver and Violet Mikami has sent shockwaves through Firehouse 51, and Carver’s behavior has become increasingly unpredictable. After briefly dating his high school girlfriend Tori, Carver’s mood shifts dramatically, and his commitment to his job is questioned. Despite his best efforts to regain his footing, Carver’s lingering feelings for Violet make his future uncertain, especially as Violet moves on with Flynn. As the season continues, Carver’s character will be put to the test, navigating the delicate balance between his personal and professional life.
4. Herrmann & Mouch Are Gunning For Promotions
Veteran firefighters Herrmann and Mouch have been grappling with the absence of Chief Boden and are now questioning their futures in the firehouse. To prove they still have more to give, Herrmann decides to take the captain exam, while Mouch sets his sights on the lieutenant exam. Their push for higher positions will cause some tension, especially with Chief Pascal already in charge. If they succeed, will they still be able to work together at Firehouse 51, or will one of them have to leave? Their ambitions will make for a thrilling storyline throughout the rest of Season 13.
5. Severide & Pascal’s Surprising Rapport
At the start of Season 13, everyone at Firehouse 51 struggled with the transition to Chief Pascal’s leadership, but one relationship that has developed unexpectedly is between Kelly Severide and Dom Pascal. Initially skeptical of Pascal’s no-nonsense approach, Severide has warmed to the new chief, particularly after the two work together to investigate a case involving a corrupt cop linked to a series of arson attacks. This partnership could be crucial as the season progresses, with Severide and Pascal sharing a mutual respect for one another. If Herrmann becomes captain, there’s a chance Severide and Pascal could continue working together on more high-stakes cases in the future.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Firehouse 51?
With so many personal and professional challenges ahead, Chicago Fire Season 13 will be full of emotional highs and lows. From the intense personal struggles of Cruz and Novak to the evolving leadership dynamics with Herrmann, Mouch, and Pascal, there’s no shortage of drama coming up. As Firehouse 51 navigates through these turbulent times, fans can expect shocking twists, heartfelt moments, and high-stakes decisions.
Make sure to tune in for the Winter 2025 return of Chicago Fire, as the team deals with the aftermath of their toughest challenges yet. What will happen next for Carver and Violet? Can Herrmann and Mouch successfully make it to the top? And how will Cruz handle the ghosts from his past?
