The latest developments in Chicago Fire season 13 have fans questioning if Sam Carver, played by Jake Lockett, is finally making his exit from Firehouse 51. In episode 5, titled “Birds of Prey,” it seems like the series is setting up a potential farewell for Carver, who has struggled to find his place in the tight-knit crew. Despite some ups and downs, Carver appeared to be settling in—until now.
Trouble at Firehouse 51: Carver’s Downward Spiral
In “Birds of Prey,” Firehouse 51 is dealing with multiple intense situations. Severide and Pascal are caught up in a fire investigation, while other team members manage unexpected challenges, including Mouch handling a bird attack and Violet Mikami rushing a patient to Med. However, the most dramatic storyline revolves around Sam Carver, whose behavior has become increasingly erratic due to his relationship with Tori, a girlfriend with a toxic influence.
Carver’s struggles are evident throughout the episode. His poor performance and lack of focus raise concerns, especially for Stella Kidd, who has noticed a shift in his behavior since his return from a recent furlough. With Firehouse 51 already under scrutiny following the departure of key personnel, Kidd’s patience runs out, and she decides to send Carver home in the middle of his shift. This moment leaves fans wondering: is this the end for Carver at Firehouse 51?
Kidd Sends Carver Home: Is He Being Pushed Out?
In season 13, episode 6, Carver’s behavior reaches a breaking point. Kidd confronts him about his repeated late nights and lack of preparation. When Carver shows up without essential gear, due to another night of partying with Tori, Kidd urges him to consider leaving Firehouse 51 altogether. She even suggests that he might be better suited for a different firehouse in Austin, where his current lifestyle would be less of a problem.
Though Kidd doesn’t officially fire him, her suggestion hits hard. Combined with Tori’s earlier comments encouraging him to move on, Carver might be seriously considering a fresh start away from Chicago. If this storyline continues, it could mean the departure of yet another character from the Chicago Fire roster.
Will Carver Leave for Good? Unlikely, but Not Impossible
Despite the dramatic exit scene, it’s unlikely that Carver is gone for good. Chicago Fire has teased his departure multiple times before, only for him to return to the team. In the season 12 finale, Carver took a brief furlough after a tough conversation with Violet about their relationship, but he eventually came back, albeit a changed man.
Moreover, Jake Lockett’s recent promotion to a series regular hints at long-term plans for his character. While the specifics of his contract aren’t public, this promotion suggests that NBC and Wolf Entertainment are committed to keeping Carver as part of the main cast for the foreseeable future. This means that Carver is likely to reclaim his spot in Firehouse 51, although when and how that happens remains uncertain.
Why Chicago Fire Can’t Afford to Lose Sam Carver
In recent seasons, Chicago Fire has seen several significant exits, including original cast members like Chief Boden and Matt Casey, as well as fan favorites like Blake Gallo and Sylvie Brett. Losing Carver now would further disrupt the stability of Firehouse 51, which is already dealing with major changes. With the constant turnover, the team needs consistency, and letting go of Carver would only create more uncertainty.
Additionally, Carver’s departure would abruptly end his budding romance with Violet Mikami before it has a chance to develop further. This storyline has been a compelling subplot, and cutting it short would be disappointing for fans who have been rooting for their relationship.
The Future of Carver and Firehouse 51
While the show has left Carver’s fate hanging in the balance, all signs indicate that he isn’t leaving for good—at least not yet. Jake Lockett’s presence as a series regular and the unresolved plotlines surrounding Carver’s character suggest that he will stick around, even if it means overcoming his current struggles. For now, fans will have to wait and see how the drama unfolds in the coming episodes.
