Career advancements have been a major theme on Chicago Fire recently. Chief Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker) transitioned to the role of Deputy Fire Commissioner, Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) passed his captain exam, and Mouch (Christian Stolte) successfully earned his lieutenant rank. With so many promotions happening, fans naturally wonder who might be next to climb the career ladder.
While Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) and Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) are already well-decorated firefighters, and others are still a ways off from significant career leaps, Joe Cruz stands out as someone eligible for advancement. Yet, according to Joe Minoso, the actor behind Cruz, fans shouldn’t expect his character to take the lieutenant test anytime soon.
Cruz Chooses Stability for His Family
Joe Minoso revealed to Screen Rant that Cruz’s primary focus isn’t on career advancement but on stability for his growing family. Cruz recently became a father, and that life change has shifted his priorities.
“I think, especially after becoming a father and now really having a taste for leadership, he’s been the acting lieutenant on Squad 3 for a couple of years now,” Minoso explained.
Cruz values his role at Firehouse 51 and the camaraderie he shares with his team. Taking the lieutenant test could mean a promotion that might transfer him to another firehouse—a move he’s not willing to make. The bonds he has built, especially with Kelly Severide, are central to his happiness at work.
Cruz Prioritizes Family Over Career Advancement
Being a father has added weight to Cruz’s decisions. Minoso noted that Cruz is keenly aware of his responsibilities as a parent, including ensuring his safety on the job so he can watch his sons grow up. Financial concerns also linger, as Cruz thinks about providing for his children’s futures, including their eventual college educations.
However, his current position offers him both professional satisfaction and personal fulfillment. Staying at Firehouse 51 allows him to remain close to his colleagues and maintain his strong friendship with Severide, which Minoso describes as a key motivator for Cruz’s decision to forgo promotion.
“There was some great stuff between Severide and Cruz early on in the season that I think brought them closer together,” Minoso shared.
A Complicated Past Weighs on Cruz’s Future
Another factor influencing Cruz’s reluctance to seek a promotion is his checkered past. In the Chicago Fire episode “A Favor,” Cruz made some questionable choices, including using Firehouse 51 equipment to assist in a robbery and getting shot in the process. These actions could jeopardize his career if they come to light.
With so much at stake, it’s understandable why Cruz would be cautious about pursuing a higher rank. His primary goal is to stay with the team he trusts and protect his family from the potential fallout of any missteps.
What’s Next for Cruz?
Joe Cruz’s decision to remain at Firehouse 51 reflects his deep ties to his team and his commitment to his family. While a promotion may not be in the cards right now, fans can look forward to seeing how Cruz continues to grow as a leader within Squad 3.
What do you think of Cruz’s choice? Share your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned for more updates on his journey in Chicago Fire!
