In Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 4, Firehouse 51 undergoes another shakeup as Stella Kidd scrambles to find a replacement for firefighter Jack Damon, who was dismissed by Chief Dom Pascal in the previous episode. While a familiar face returns to fill the vacancy, the excitement is bittersweet because of Chief Wallace Boden’s recent exit. The dynamic that made Boden such a beloved presence will be sorely missed, and Kylie Estevez’s arrival doesn’t fully make up for the absence of the firehouse’s former leader.
Boden’s Departure Casts a Shadow Over Season 13
At the end of Chicago Fire Season 12, Boden accepted a promotion to become the Deputy Fire Commissioner of the Chicago Fire Department, leaving Firehouse 51. In his place, Chief Dom Pascal has taken over in Season 13, which has been an adjustment for both the firehouse crew and the audience. Pascal’s stern leadership style is in stark contrast to Boden’s supportive and nurturing presence.
Meanwhile, the firehouse faced another blow when Jack Damon, Kelly Severide’s half-brother, was fired after defying orders. With Damon gone and Pascal’s expectations looming over her, Kidd is tasked with finding a suitable replacement for Truck 81. But what should be an exciting new chapter for Firehouse 51 is tainted by the absence of one of its most important figures: Chief Boden.
Kylie’s Long-Awaited Return to Firehouse 51
Kylie Estevez, who first appeared as one of the recruits in Kidd’s Girls on Fire Program, is tapped as a potential candidate to replace Damon. Though Kidd is eager to bring her onboard, Kylie initially hesitates. She worries that joining Firehouse 51 will place her under Kidd’s shadow, making it difficult for her to stand out. Ultimately, Kylie passes on the opportunity, forcing Kidd to search for another solution.
However, there is a silver lining: Christopher Herrmann suggests a perfect solution by transferring Darren Ritter to Truck 81, and Kylie takes his spot on Engine 51. With this plan, everyone gets what they need. Kidd finds a capable successor for Damon, Kylie joins the firehouse without the pressure of comparison, and Ritter steps into a new role. On the surface, this appears to be a win-win, but there’s an emotional void that no amount of reshuffling can fill.
The Emotional Impact of Boden’s Absence
Kylie’s return to Firehouse 51 is bittersweet because of her deep connection to Boden. Before joining Girls on Fire, Kylie worked closely with Boden as his office assistant, forming a special bond with him. Their dynamic was heartwarming, as Boden often took on a mentor role, helping Kylie grow both personally and professionally. Seeing Kylie finally become a full-fledged firefighter without Boden there to witness her success feels like a missed opportunity for the show.
While it’s possible that Boden could make a future appearance to congratulate Kylie on her transfer, it won’t be the same as watching the two work together day in and day out. Their relationship was a highlight of earlier seasons, and Boden’s exit robs fans of the chance to see them reunite under the same roof.
The Road Ahead for Firehouse 51
As Chicago Fire continues its 13th season, the cast and audience will have to adjust to the changes in Firehouse 51. Though Pascal brings a new leadership style and characters like Kylie and Ritter are stepping into exciting new roles, the absence of Boden is undeniably felt. His leadership and personal relationships, particularly with characters like Kylie, brought a unique warmth to the firehouse.
The show must move forward with its evolving storyline, but Boden’s legacy will continue to linger over Firehouse 51. Fans can only hope that his absence isn’t permanent and that future episodes will give viewers the reunion they crave between Boden and Kylie, who has finally earned her place among the Firehouse 51 family.
