For fans of NBC’s Chicago Fire, the sight of a familiar face returning to Firehouse 51 is often a moment of celebration, especially when that character’s absence was unexpected. In Season 14, Episode 6, “Broken Things,” viewers welcomed back actor Dermot Mulroney, who plays Battalion Chief Dominick “Dom” Pascal.
Mulroney’s character had been noticeably absent for two episodes (Episodes 4 and 5) of the season, with the in-universe explanation being that he was assisting at other firehouses following budget-related layoffs of six battalion chiefs in the CFD. His return not only resolved his temporary disappearance but also signaled a significant emotional and professional shift for the character, kicking off a new, complex storyline.
But who is the veteran actor behind the disciplined yet complex Chief, and what makes his return so crucial to the future of Firehouse 51? Dermot Mulroney is a seasoned Hollywood professional whose diverse career, spanning romantic comedies to action thrillers, lends unique gravitas to the One Chicago universe.
👨🚒 Dermot Mulroney as Chief Dom Pascal: A Study in Contrast
Dermot Mulroney joined Chicago Fire in Season 13, taking over Firehouse 51 after the promotion of the beloved Chief Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker) to Deputy Commissioner. Mulroney’s character, Chief Dom Pascal, immediately set himself apart, providing a stark contrast to Boden’s fatherly, intuitive leadership style.
Pascal’s Defining Characteristics
- Background: Pascal had led a firehouse in Miami for 10 years before returning to Chicago to lead Battalion 25, bringing with him a decade of experience as a chief.
- Leadership Style: He is known for being structured, disciplined, and professional. He implemented stricter protocols, such as technology restrictions during meals and call debriefings, which initially caused friction with the 51 crew, notably Lieutenant Stella Kidd.
- Initial Tensions: Pascal’s initial tenure was marked by being “hard to read,” leading to early tensions. Showrunner Andrea Newman noted that a key moment defining his acceptance by the team was at his wife Monica’s funeral, where Mouch told him, “That’s why we’re here, chief,” solidifying Pascal’s understanding that he was part of the 51 family.
- Personal Turmoil: Pascal’s life was shattered by the death of his wife, Monica, in a car accident. This tragedy tested his leadership, leading him to take risks in emergencies and question his safety, reflecting the emotional and professional turmoil the character continues to face. Furthermore, his time in Miami hints at past secrets that have impacted his life in Chicago, linking him to an attempted murder and arson case after Monica’s death.
🔙 The Significance of Pascal’s Return in Season 14, Episode 6
Chief Pascal’s return in Season 14, Episode 6 was strategically timed to shift the narrative focus and introduce a key mentorship dynamic.
The Unexpected Absence
Pascal was “MIA” (Missing In Action) for Episodes 4 and 5 of Season 14. This in-universe absence was explained as him assisting at other firehouses due to the firing of six battalion chiefs across the CFD in a budget cut measure. The brief break fueled fan speculation, but his return confirmed his commitment to the show.
The Mentorship Dynamic
Upon his return in “Broken Things,” Pascal immediately focused on strengthening his bond with Lieutenant Kelly Severide.
- Passing the Torch: Having previously trusted Severide to look after 51 during his absence, Pascal now took Severide further “under his wing.”
- Shadowing Role: The episode saw Severide shadowing Pascal for the day, with the pair working together to review plans. Their collaboration involved meeting with Mayor Benning’s Chief of Staff, Annette Davis, suggesting their work relates to high-level CFD matters that could impact the entire department.
- Emotional Compassion: His return showed a more compassionate side, with Pascal mentoring his fellow firefighters through difficult situations, balancing his demanding leadership style with a necessary emotional well-being.
The mentor/mentee dynamic with Severide is a crucial development, evolving from initial tension to a unique partnership that adds depth and complexity to the Firehouse 51 command structure.
🌟 Who is Dermot Mulroney? Beyond Firehouse 51
Born in Alexandria, Virginia, on October 31, 1963, Dermot Mulroney is far more than just Chief Pascal. His career spans nearly four decades, showcasing remarkable versatility across film and television.
Hollywood Career Highlights
- Breakthrough Roles: Mulroney first gained major recognition in the late 1980s and 1990s with roles in films like the Western Young Guns (1988) and the romantic comedy blockbuster My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997) alongside Julia Roberts, which remains his highest-grossing film.
- Versatility: He has excelled across genres, including drama (August: Osage County), horror (Insidious: Chapter 3, Scream VI), and comedy (The Wedding Date, Dirty Grandpa).
- Television: Mulroney has maintained a strong television presence, with main roles in the Amazon Prime Video series Hanna (2020–2021) and the Marvel Cinematic Universe series Secret Invasion (2023), where he played President James Ritson. He also had a notable recurring role in the Showtime series Shameless.
- Music Background: In addition to acting, Mulroney is an accomplished classical cellist. He started playing the cello at age seven and has contributed his musical talent to the scores of over 20 films, including Jurassic World, Zootopia, and Mission: Impossible III and Ghost Protocol.
His extensive background allows him to bring a depth and professionalism to Chief Pascal that resonates with the real-life demands of a high-ranking Battalion Chief.
🔑 Conclusion: The Future of Chief Pascal
Dermot Mulroney’s return as Chief Dom Pascal in Chicago Fire Season 14, Episode 6, is more than just filling a slot on the roster. It marks a significant evolution for a character who has been deeply affected by personal loss and professional challenges.
By showcasing his emotional vulnerability through Monica’s death and solidifying his mentorship with Severide, the show is integrating Pascal fully into the Firehouse 51 family fabric. Fans can expect Mulroney’s dynamic performance to continue to explore the complexities of a leader balancing his past demons, his responsibilities to the CFD, and his place within the tight-knit, demanding world of the Chicago fire service.
