While Christopher Herrmann is the loud, passionate soul of Firehouse 51, the man who brings him to life, David Eigenberg, is a master of the “Quiet Hero” lifestyle. In an industry defined by fleeting romances and public scandals, David’s marriage to Chrysti Eigenberg has become the gold standard for fans. As of January 2026, the couple is celebrating nearly 24 years of marriage, a milestone that many call the “Perfect Cast Marriage” because it mirrors the grounded, blue-collar loyalty that Herrmann displays every Wednesday night on NBC.
The story of David and Chrysti began in the shadow of tragedy. The pair met in 2001, shortly after the September 11th attacks, while Chrysti was serving as an Army specialist in homeland security in Virginia. David often recounts that it was an “instant hit to the core,” a connection so profound that they married in 2002 at the Samovar in Manhattan after only a few months of dating. Despite the whirlwind start, their union has been built on the “gravity” of navigating hardships together. David has been candid about their struggles, admitting they “fought for a year straight” during their second year of marriage, but emerged stronger by choosing communication and forgiveness over defeat—a real-life resilience that informs Herrmann’s own domestic battles on screen.
One of the most cherished “Family Rituals” for the Eigenbergs involves their move to Chicago. When David landed the role of Herrmann in 2012, Chrysti—who famously hates the winter—initially told him she would move anywhere except Chicago. However, due to the family’s financial reality at the time and David’s desire to be near his parents in Naperville, Chrysti made the sacrifice for his career. Today, the couple and their two children, Louie Steven (born 2009) and Myrna Belle (born 2014), have fully embraced the Windy City. Fans often see David at local parks or community events, living a life that is strikingly “normal” for a television star. He treats his fame as a job that allows him to provide for his “three gifts”—his wife and two kids—rather than a platform for celebrity.
As David recently hit his 60th birthday in May 2025, the depth of his family’s support was on full display. His children and wife tracked down a vintage Cuddly Dudley puppet—a nostalgic staple of Chicago children’s television—as a surprise for his “old sentimental heart.” This moment went viral among the “Chi-Hard” community, solidifying David’s reputation as the most relatable member of the cast. His “Perfect Marriage” isn’t about being flaw-free; it’s about the “goodness” that comes when the dust settles and you still choose the person standing next to you. In 2026, as Chicago Fire continues its record-breaking run, David Eigenberg remains a reminder that the greatest fires we ever tend are the ones in our own homes.
Would you like me to find the “Official Podcast” where David discusses his time in the Marine Corps, or should we track the “Birthday Surprise” video that David shared of his children’s sentimental gift?
David Eigenberg on why he loves his wife
This video is relevant because it features an in-depth look at the real-life partners of the Chicago Fire cast, highlighting the enduring bond between David and Chrysti Eigenberg that fans admire in 2026.