As Chicago Fire barrels toward the climax of its explosive thirteenth season, the winds of change are howling through Firehouse 51 once again. And according to a chilling new interview with longtime cast member Eamonn Walker, fans should brace themselves for more than just a dramatic return — they should prepare for another possible heartbreak.
Walker, who played the commanding and beloved Wallace Boden from the show’s first season through Season 12, is officially returning in Season 13, Episode 18, and he’s not coming back quietly. His reappearance comes in the aftermath of a devastating blaze that may cost the life of a firefighter. But it’s what Walker hints at during his press rounds that has the fandom buzzing: another cast member may be making their final exit.
Boden’s Return Signals More Than Nostalgia — It Signals Trouble
After stepping down as Battalion Chief in the Season 12 finale, Boden’s departure left a leadership void — one that was controversially filled by Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney). But Boden isn’t gone for good. He returns in Episode 18, not as a sentimental callback, but as Deputy Commissioner sent to investigate a call gone catastrophically wrong.
“There’s a firefighter who’s left behind. Maybe one of your favorites dies,” Walker teased in his interview with ScreenRant. “That’s what Boden is dealing with. So everything that’s happened up to now? Pretty unimportant. Because by the end of this episode, you may lose another member of your cast.”
The word “lose” sent shockwaves through the fandom. Walker didn’t mince words. And if there’s one thing Chicago Fire has proven over the years, it’s that no one is ever truly safe.
What Episode 18 Could Mean for the Future of 51
Walker’s return comes at a precarious time for Firehouse 51. Chief Pascal’s leadership has created friction, and many fans — and characters — had hoped Herrmann would take over. Now, with Boden returning to investigate a potentially fatal misstep, all eyes are on how the show will navigate this intersection of loss, accountability, and shifting leadership dynamics.
Add to that Walker’s remark about the episode being “quite specific” and that someone close to the audience may not survive, and we’re looking at a major pivot point for the series.
This isn’t just filler drama — it sounds like a turning point that could alter the makeup of the firehouse heading into the final stretch of the season.
Who Could Be in the Crosshairs?
While there’s no confirmation of which character might be on the chopping block, speculation is rampant. Here’s who fans are most worried about:
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Sam Carver (Jake Lockett): Carver has had several intense arcs this season, including near-death experiences and unresolved trauma. His increasingly risky behavior could be setting him up for a tragic fall.
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Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri): A fan favorite with a heart of gold, Ritter’s death would be a gut-punch — and just the kind of twist Chicago Fire likes to play when you least expect it.
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Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo): Already teased in earlier promos as being in peril, Stella is constantly front-and-center in dangerous calls. The loss of her character would deeply impact Severide and ripple through the entire house.
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Newcomers: The show might shock viewers by killing off a newer team member, one who has just started to earn their place — giving the tragedy a note of cruel irony.
A Possible Power Shift: Is Herrmann Next in Line?
The tension between Chief Pascal and the rest of the team has been simmering all season, especially with Boden originally endorsing Christopher Herrmann for leadership. Walker alluded to Boden’s disapproval of Pascal’s approach — though stopped short of confirming any direct clashes.
Still, with a potential loss rocking the firehouse, Pascal’s position could become even more unstable. And if the fallout from Episode 18 includes blame, guilt, or misconduct… well, a leadership shake-up could be coming fast.
If that happens, Herrmann may finally rise into the role that fans (and Boden) have long envisioned for him.
Will Boden Stick Around Beyond Episode 18?
While Boden’s return is billed as a one-episode appearance for now, Chicago Fire fans know better than to count him out. If the fire he investigates turns into a multi-episode arc — or if his presence is needed to help transition leadership — he could remain a recurring presence through the season’s end.
And with Season 14 still unconfirmed but likely, Boden may be laying the groundwork for even more dramatic shifts to come.
A Tradition of High Stakes and Higher Emotions
Over the years, Chicago Fire has built a reputation for balancing adrenaline-fueled rescues with deeply personal, often tragic character arcs. From Leslie Shay to Brian “Otis” Zvonecek to Evan Hawkins, the series has never shied away from killing off major characters when the story demands it.
Walker’s comments suggest that tradition will continue. And if history repeats itself, Episode 18 could go down as one of the most emotionally devastating chapters in Chicago Fire history.
Final Thoughts: Prepare for Impact
As we approach Episode 18, it’s clear that Chicago Fire isn’t coasting into its finale — it’s careening toward it. With Eamonn Walker’s return as Boden and ominous warnings of a potential cast member exit, fans would be wise to brace themselves.
One thing is certain: Firehouse 51 is about to be tested like never before. And not everyone may make it out alive.
Stay tuned. The heat is only just beginning.
Catch Chicago Fire Wednesdays at 9/8c on NBC, and check back here for full recaps, cast interviews, and post-episode analysis.
