As Chicago Fire gears up for Season 14, longtime fans are buzzing about drama, danger, and—unexpectedly—career politics. While many assumed that newcomer Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) was to blame for Christopher Herrmann’s recent struggles, the truth is far more surprising. If you peel back the layers, the root of Herrmann’s problem isn’t Pascal at all—it’s former Firehouse 51 legend, Chief Wallace Boden.
Yes, you read that right. Boden, the man who anchored Chicago Fire for over a decade and more than 250 episodes, set the wheels in motion for Herrmann’s identity crisis long before he stepped away from his post in 2024. And now, Herrmann’s entire professional trajectory—and possibly his relationships—hangs in the balance.
Boden’s Exit Created a Power Vacuum
When Eamonn Walker’s Chief Boden bid farewell after 12 incredible seasons, it felt like the end of an era. For years, Boden was the soul of Firehouse 51, the calm in the storm, the voice that always put his team first. His departure left a void that no one—not even Pascal—could instantly fill.
But Boden didn’t just leave; he left with a plan. During the Season 12 finale, Boden pulled Herrmann aside and made a game-changing declaration:
“When I’m gone, I want you to take my place.”
It was a moment loaded with symbolism and sentiment. Herrmann, the fiery original cast member who’s been on Chicago Fire since its 2012 pilot, had never even dreamed of being chief. But Boden’s words planted the seed—and changed everything.
The Heavy Burden of Boden’s Blessing
For Herrmann, Boden’s endorsement wasn’t just flattering—it was destiny. Suddenly, the bar was raised. Being a great lieutenant wasn’t enough anymore. Herrmann now had to think like a leader of leaders, a figurehead for Firehouse 51.
The only problem? Time wasn’t on his side.
When Boden stepped away, Herrmann wasn’t fully qualified to take the reins. The chief exam, administrative training, and certifications all loomed large, and the CFD couldn’t wait. So, they hired Pascal—a seasoned, if somewhat rigid, replacement.
Cue the tension. Pascal’s arrival in Season 13 was rocky. He clashed with Kidd, questioned decisions, and felt like an outsider. Fans wondered if his tenure would be short-lived. But by the finale, Pascal had settled in—and Herrmann? He was left in limbo.
The Season 13 Finale Twist That Changed Everything
Despite Pascal’s growing acceptance within the firehouse, Herrmann pushed ahead in his quest for advancement—until he didn’t. In the closing chapters of Season 13, Herrmann shocked everyone by choosing not to take the final step toward becoming chief.
Instead, he opted for something entirely different: stepping back. Herrmann voluntarily gave up his spot as Engine 51’s lieutenant so that his longtime friend Mouch could rise into the position. The selfless move was classic Herrmann—putting loyalty and friendship above ambition.
But was it the right call?
Season 14: A Man Without a Mission
Heading into Season 14, Herrmann is in unfamiliar territory. For the first time in years, he’s just a regular firefighter again. For now, he seems at peace. But fans know Herrmann—and complacency isn’t in his DNA.
At some point, reality will hit:
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Financial strain. Leadership roles come with better pay, and Herrmann has a family to think about.
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Lingering ambition. Boden’s words still echo in his mind. Once someone tells you you’re meant to lead, can you ever go back?
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Tension with Mouch. For decades, these two have been brothers in arms. But will Herrmann secretly resent giving up his old spot—especially if he decides he still wants to climb the ladder?
Could Herrmann Still Become Chief?
Fans can’t help but wonder if Season 14 will reignite Herrmann’s ambition. After all, Pascal might be settling in, but he’s no Boden—and certainly no Herrmann. If the show decides to play the long game, Herrmann could circle back, take the test, and finally claim the title that Boden wanted for him.
Imagine the drama: Herrmann balancing family obligations, revisiting his leadership dreams, and confronting whether he wants the job—or if he only wants it because Boden believed in him.
Why Boden Bears the Blame (With Love)
To be clear, Boden didn’t act with malice. His faith in Herrmann was a gift. But in passing that torch prematurely, he created an expectation Herrmann wasn’t prepared to meet—setting up a storyline that’s now brimming with emotional complexity.
This isn’t Pascal’s fault. He’s just doing the job he was hired to do. No, the real conflict lives in Herrmann’s heart, where loyalty, ambition, and self-doubt collide.
Final Thought: Chicago Fire’s Boldest Move Yet
As Chicago Fire enters its 14th season, Herrmann’s arc might just be its most compelling storyline. It’s not about flames or rescues—it’s about identity. Who is Christopher Herrmann when he’s not a lieutenant, and not yet a chief?
One thing is certain: the spark Boden lit isn’t out. And when it ignites again, Firehouse 51 better be ready for fireworks.
