Jake Lockett and Daniel Kyri Say Goodbye to Firehouse 51
As Chicago Fire Season 13 blazes through NBC’s 2025 primetime schedule, fans are bracing for more than just explosive rescues and dramatic emergencies. The show, a long-standing pillar of the One Chicago franchise, is once again experiencing seismic changes behind the scenes—this time in the form of significant cast departures. Jake Lockett, who portrayed the fearless but troubled Sam Carver, and Daniel Kyri, known for his calm and composed Darren Ritter, are both confirmed to exit the series by the season’s end.
A Short But Impactful Stay for Sam Carver
Jake Lockett joined Chicago Fire in Season 11, quickly becoming a fan-favorite with his blend of intensity, vulnerability, and deeply human struggles. While Carver’s time at Firehouse 51 was relatively brief, his presence was anything but forgettable. In fact, Lockett was only promoted to a series regular in Season 13, making his exit all the more surprising for fans who hoped to see more of his arc unfold.
Behind the scenes, the decision to write off Carver reportedly stemmed from budget cuts, not creative choices. According to Deadline, the move was part of a larger financial restructuring at NBCUniversal affecting multiple shows across its lineup. Lockett, in a heartfelt Instagram post, reflected on his departure with a mixture of pride and sorrow: “While I don’t exactly know what the future looks like, I do know that it won’t be exactly what it was and I am going to miss the hell out of that.”
Daniel Kyri’s Departure Marks the End of an Era
While Jake Lockett’s tenure was short, Daniel Kyri’s character, Darren Ritter, has been a familiar and steady presence since Season 7. Ritter represented calmness amid chaos, empathy in a high-stakes environment, and a deep loyalty to his fellow firefighters. His departure signals the end of a significant chapter for Chicago Fire—one that saw the development of LGBTQ+ representation, mental health awareness, and the importance of compassion in first-response careers.
Kyri has not made an official statement about his departure as of yet, but the reaction from the fanbase has been intense. Many have taken to social media to express disappointment, appreciation, and concern over what this could mean for the heart of the show moving forward.
The Emotional Weight of Exits in the One Chicago Universe
Unlike many procedural dramas, Chicago Fire thrives on its emotional continuity. Each character departure is felt deeply by the viewers because of the family-like dynamic that the writers and actors have cultivated. From Jesse Spencer’s exit as Casey to Kara Killmer’s recent departure as Sylvie Brett, and now with Lockett and Kyri leaving, fans are once again being asked to adjust to a new Firehouse 51.
The fact that both Lockett and Kyri are exiting at the same time adds to the sense of instability. While it’s not uncommon for shows this deep into their runs to experience cast turnover, Chicago Fire has often weathered such changes through well-written transitions. The question now is: can the show do it again?
What’s Next for Firehouse 51?
With two key firefighters leaving the team, viewers are curious how the writers will handle the changes. Will Sam Carver’s exit be tied to his ongoing struggle with alcohol and personal demons? Will Darren Ritter receive a heroic sendoff, or will his departure be sudden and unexplained? The answers are unclear, but there’s hope that the storytelling team will give both characters the narrative closure they deserve.
There’s also the matter of replacements. New characters are often a gamble—some take off instantly with fans, while others struggle to fill the void left by their predecessors. Whoever steps into Firehouse 51 next will have big boots to fill.
Season 13: A Season of Highs and Losses
Beyond cast changes, Season 13 has already delivered powerful drama. From Boden’s return to a life-threatening fire that nearly claimed Jack’s life, to Chief Pascal’s heartbreaking loss, this season has pushed emotional boundaries. It’s clear that the show is evolving—and not without its growing pains.
While some longtime fans have expressed concern over the frequency of departures, others see it as a natural evolution. As firehouses in real life see personnel changes, so too does Firehouse 51. What matters most is the sense of camaraderie that Chicago Fire has always prioritized. Whether old faces or new, the soul of the series lives in the courage and sacrifice of those who run toward danger.
Looking Ahead: Renewal Questions and Hopes for Return
As of early June 2025, Chicago Fire has not been officially renewed for Season 14. Given the franchise’s popularity, many industry watchers expect an announcement soon, but the uncertainty adds another layer to an already emotional season.
Fans are holding out hope that Jake Lockett and Daniel Kyri may return in some form—guest appearances, flashbacks, or future story arcs. Until then, viewers will be watching closely as Chicago Fire closes another intense and heartfelt chapter.
