Leadership in Limbo? The Chicago Fire Season 13 Finale Could See a Significant Shift in Command
While the news of Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri) and Sam Carver’s (Jake Lockett) impending departures at the end of Chicago Fire Season 13 has already left many fans feeling the sting of loss, a new wave of speculation suggests that Firehouse 51 might be facing an even more significant exit in the season finale – that of Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney). Recent episodes have placed Pascal in a precarious legal and professional position, hinting that his time at the helm of 51 could be drawing to a dramatic close.
The penultimate episode of Season 13 saw Pascal arrested in connection with the attempted murder of Robert Franklin, the man responsible for the death of Pascal’s wife years prior. While flashbacks suggest Pascal’s innocence in this specific instance, the cloud of suspicion, coupled with his past actions and the general distrust from Firehouse 51, paints a bleak picture for his future within the Chicago Fire Department. This unfolding drama suggests that the finale might not just be about bidding farewell to Ritter and Carver, but potentially witnessing a major shake-up in the firehouse’s leadership.
The Weight of Suspicion: Pascal’s Legal Troubles Mount
Despite evidence pointing towards Pascal being framed for the attempted murder, the fact remains that he was the prime suspect and was taken into custody. The promo for the season finale, titled “It Had to End This Way,” heavily features Pascal’s interrogation and the mounting evidence against him. Even if he is ultimately proven innocent in this specific case, the damage to his reputation and the trust within Firehouse 51 may be irreparable.
Furthermore, the revelation of Pascal’s past in Miami, where he left due to his investigation into a mob-linked individual, adds another layer of instability to his character. The possibility of external threats still looming over him could also contribute to a potential exit, whether by choice or by force.
Herrmann’s Ascending Ambition: A Chief in the Making?
The potential departure of Chief Pascal aligns intriguingly with the ongoing storyline of Captain Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) and his pursuit of becoming a Chief himself. Throughout Season 13, Herrmann has been preparing to take the Chief’s exam, a journey that has been a long-time coming for the beloved veteran of Firehouse 51.
With Pascal’s future uncertain, the finale could very well set the stage for Herrmann to finally step into a leadership role. Whether Pascal is formally removed from his position due to the legal proceedings or chooses to leave voluntarily amidst the turmoil, his exit would create a natural opening for Herrmann to potentially take over as the new Chief of Firehouse 51, a development many fans have been eagerly anticipating since Chief Boden’s (Eamonn Walker) departure at the end of Season 12.
Severide’s Loyalty Tested: Could He Follow Pascal Out?
Another concerning element highlighted in the season finale promo is Kelly Severide’s (Taylor Kinney) unwavering belief in Pascal’s innocence and his willingness to put his own job on the line to help him. Severide’s loyalty, while admirable, could have serious repercussions, as hinted by Captain Van Meter’s warning that if Pascal goes down, Severide might go down with him.
This raises the unsettling possibility that the season finale could see not just one, but potentially two major character exits beyond Ritter and Carver. While it seems unlikely that Severide would permanently leave Firehouse 51 again so soon after his recent return, the finale could leave his future with the CFD hanging in the balance, creating significant tension heading into a potential Season 14.
A Finale of Farewell? The Shifting Landscape of Firehouse 51
If the rumors and promo hints prove accurate, the Season 13 finale of Chicago Fire could mark a significant turning point for Firehouse 51. Saying goodbye to Ritter and Carver was already a blow for many fans, but the potential exit of Chief Pascal, and the possible ramifications for Severide, would dramatically reshape the leadership and dynamics of the firehouse.
This potential large-scale shift underscores the show’s willingness to evolve and introduce new challenges for its remaining characters. While change can be difficult for long-time viewers, it also creates opportunities for fresh storylines and the development of existing characters in new and unexpected ways.
Conclusion: Brace for Impact – The Chicago Fire Finale Might Be Bigger Than We Think
While the confirmed departures of Ritter and Carver have been the focus of much discussion, the unfolding events of Chicago Fire Season 13 suggest that the finale might deliver an even more significant character exit in the form of Chief Dom Pascal. His legal troubles and the resulting distrust within Firehouse 51 paint a compelling picture for his potential departure, paving the way for Herrmann’s long-awaited leadership opportunity. Furthermore, Severide’s unwavering support for Pascal could have unforeseen consequences for his own future with the CFD. As the season draws to a close, fans should prepare for a finale that could dramatically alter the landscape of Firehouse 51, leaving the future of its leadership and key personnel hanging in the balance. Forget Ritter and Carver; the biggest goodbye might be yet to come.
