The fall finale of Chicago Fire Season 13 is set to be a game-changer, especially for longtime fan-favorite Christopher Herrmann (played by David Eigenberg). As Chief Boden’s departure earlier this season reshaped Firehouse 51, it cleared the way for new leadership dynamics, creating fresh challenges and opportunities for its team members. For Herrmann, it’s a moment to finally take the leap toward becoming a captain, a step that could redefine his role at Firehouse 51.
Herrmann Faces the Captain’s Test Once More
Chief Boden’s exit earlier this season left a void at Firehouse 51, now filled by Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney). However, Pascal’s leadership style has sparked debate, leading some to wonder if Herrmann would have been a better fit as captain. Although Herrmann initially hesitated to take the captain’s test in the past—largely due to health issues—he’s now ready to give it another go.
In a recent interview with TV Line, Eigenberg revealed that Herrmann is determined to tackle the captain’s exam this time:
“He’s going to go to it, and he will not be alone because we have Mouch gearing up for another huge life change as he takes on the lieutenant’s test.”
This dual pursuit of leadership roles for Herrmann and Mouch highlights a recurring theme in Chicago Fire: personal growth and teamwork amid ever-present challenges.
The Weight of Leadership
Herrmann’s journey toward becoming a captain represents more than a career milestone; it’s a major step in accepting the responsibility of leadership. Eigenberg reflected on what this role means for his character:
“When you take on an officer’s advancement, you step further away from the actual fire, but you also take on the responsibility of the lives. That’s a hard thing to do—to worry about being responsible for people and also stepping away from the old life. And I think Herrmann is ready for it.”
Becoming a captain would position Herrmann to influence Firehouse 51 in new ways. Yet, it also raises questions about how his role will evolve, especially with Pascal currently serving as Station 51’s captain.
What’s Next for Herrmann?
If Herrmann passes the captain’s test, the show faces a dilemma: What happens to Dom Pascal? While Pascal’s leadership style has been polarizing, Mulroney’s portrayal of the character has been a welcome addition to the cast. Eigenberg expressed his mixed feelings about the potential shift:
“Dermot’s been such a wonderful addition. I’m very torn. I honestly don’t know what they’re going to do, and I can say that I don’t want him to go.”
Eigenberg also shared how much he values the relationships he’s built on set, particularly with Eamonn Walker, whose departure as Chief Boden has left a void:
“I’m very close to Eamonn. He came back from London for a few days, and he’s been staying with us… I love the man dearly, and I love that character.”
While the potential for Herrmann’s promotion adds excitement to the fall finale, it also raises questions about how the dynamics at Firehouse 51 will shift.
A New Chapter for Firehouse 51
As Herrmann prepares for the next chapter in his career, Chicago Fire fans are left eagerly anticipating how his journey will unfold. Will Herrmann step into a leadership role and redefine his place at Firehouse 51? And if so, how will that impact the team’s chemistry?
With the fall finale promising to deliver key developments, viewers will have to wait and see whether Herrmann’s ambitions lead to a new era for Firehouse 51—or if new challenges arise to test his resolve.
