As Chicago Fire continues its historic run, Season 14 (airing throughout 2025 and leading into 2026) has been defined by one word: Transition. The hallowed halls of Firehouse 51 are seeing a significant shift in leadership and personnel, leaving fans both anxious and excited for the future.
If you’re trying to keep track of the revolving door at 51, here is your definitive guide to the cast changes and the high-stakes drama currently unfolding.
Who’s Gone: The End of an Era
The biggest shock to the system in Season 13 and early Season 14 was the departure of the show’s moral compass.
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Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker): After 12 years at the helm, Chief Boden stepped down to take on a larger role within the CFD leadership (Deputy Commissioner). While he still makes occasional guest appearances, his daily presence in the bullpen is a massive void.
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Sylvie Brett (Kara Killmer): Having moved to Portland to be with Matt Casey, the ambulance is now in new hands.
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Blake Gallo (Alberto Rosende): His departure early in the cycle left a gap in the “young energy” of the house.
Who’s Back (and Staying): The Core Heroes
Despite the departures, the “DNA” of Firehouse 51 remains intact with these fan favorites:
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Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney): After some periods of absence, Severide is back and more focused than ever on balancing his arson investigation (OFI) skills with his squad duties.
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Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo): As Lieutenant of Truck 81, Stella has truly stepped into the leadership void left by Boden, proving she is the future of the house.
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Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) & Joe Cruz (Joe Minoso): The veteran backbone of 51 continues to provide both the humor and the heart, with Herrmann specifically taking on more mentorship roles.
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Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith): Now the PIC (Paramedic in Charge) of Ambulance 61, Violet is navigating the pressures of leadership alongside her complex personal life.
The Newcomers: Fresh Faces at 51
Season 14 has introduced—and solidified—new characters who are shaking up the dynamic:
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Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney): The most significant addition is the new Battalion Chief. Unlike Boden’s paternal style, Pascal brings a “by-the-book” and somewhat mysterious leadership vibe that has caused friction with the veterans.
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Jack Damon (Michael Bradway): A new floater with a shocking secret (his connection to the Severide family) whose presence is creating ripples throughout the house.
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Lyla Novak (Jocelyn Hudon): The newest addition to the paramedic team, bringing a chaotic but brilliant energy to the rig alongside Violet.
What’s Next: The 2026 Outlook
As we move through the 2025-2026 television season, the narrative focus is shifting toward:
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The Pascal Mystery: Fans are waiting to see if Chief Pascal is a permanent ally or if his hidden past will eventually compromise the house.
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The Herrmann Promotion: There is significant buzz about Herrmann finally moving up the ranks to Chief, which would restore some of the old-school 51 spirit.
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Family Drama: Between Severide’s complicated half-brother drama and Kidd’s aspirations, the personal stakes have never been higher.
