The Most Disliked Chicago Fire Episodes, According to IMDb (But Are They Really That Bad?)
Chicago Fire has enjoyed a loyal fan base since its debut, captivating audiences with its action-packed rescues, emotional storylines, and compelling characters. However, like any long-running show, there are episodes that don’t resonate as well with viewers. IMDb ratings can give us a glimpse into which episodes were not well-received, but do these episodes truly deserve their low ratings? Let’s take a closer look at some of the most disliked episodes of Chicago Fire according to IMDb and explore whether they really are as bad as the ratings suggest.
Season 8, Episode 20: “41”
One of the lowest-rated episodes on IMDb is “41”, from Season 8, which has faced criticism for being a bit too predictable and formulaic. The episode centers around a high-stakes situation where the team has to save lives in a disaster, which is a typical Chicago Fire storyline. Some fans, however, felt that the pacing was off and that the emotional weight of the episode fell flat compared to others in the series.
Critics pointed out that it didn’t offer much in terms of character development or progression, particularly for the main characters. While the episode does deliver the usual thrilling firefighting action, it didn’t seem to push the characters forward or offer a fresh take. For viewers who are looking for deep emotional moments or significant plot development, this episode didn’t hit the mark.
Despite the negative feedback, the episode still provided intense action and some dramatic moments that Chicago Fire fans have come to love. However, its lack of character depth and predictable storyline might have been a letdown for some viewers.
Season 7, Episode 19: “Until the Weather Breaks”
Another episode that didn’t fare well with audiences is “Until the Weather Breaks” from Season 7. This episode centers around the team’s response to a major storm, putting the firehouse to the test. However, many fans were disappointed by the lack of focus on the characters’ personal lives and the episode’s overall feel of being a “filler” between bigger events.
Many viewers were critical of the way the storm was used as a backdrop without fully exploring the emotional impact it had on the team. The lack of deeper character moments in favor of action-based scenes left some fans unsatisfied. Additionally, there were some complaints about the episode feeling disjointed, with certain scenes not advancing the overall plot in a meaningful way.
While the storm and subsequent challenges made for an interesting premise, the episode didn’t offer the emotional payoff or character development that many fans had come to expect from the series. It’s understandable why it ended up with a lower rating, but like “41”, it still had its fair share of exciting moments that fans of the action genre could appreciate.
Season 6, Episode 5: “Fresh Start”
“Fresh Start” from Season 6 also earned its place on the list of less-liked episodes. While it introduced some new dynamics, such as changes in the firehouse and a focus on the character of Stella Kidd, many fans felt the episode lacked the emotional depth of previous ones. The episode was heavy on new developments and plot points but didn’t explore them fully, leading to a sense of disconnection.
What particularly bothered fans was the way certain relationships were handled, with some viewers feeling that the resolution of conflicts was too rushed or forced. For example, the tension between some characters didn’t get the necessary time to be fully explored, leaving the audience feeling unsatisfied.
Despite these critiques, “Fresh Start” does have its merits. The episode serves as a set-up for future character arcs, especially for Kidd, but it’s understandable why some fans felt it fell short when compared to the show’s best episodes.
Conclusion: Are They Really That Bad?
While these episodes of Chicago Fire received poor ratings on IMDb, it’s important to remember that every show has its highs and lows. The criticism often comes from the fact that Chicago Fire has set a high bar for itself, with some episodes delivering deep emotional arcs, thrilling action, and strong character development. When an episode doesn’t live up to those expectations, it can be disappointing for viewers.
However, just because an episode is rated lower doesn’t necessarily mean it’s “bad.” Many fans still appreciate the action, drama, and intensity these episodes bring to the table. At the end of the day, Chicago Fire continues to be a beloved show, and even the most disliked episodes have moments that are worth watching for die-hard fans.
