The scorching infernos and high-stakes rescues depicted on “Chicago Fire” are incredibly realistic, a testament not only to cutting-edge special effects but also to the rigorous training the cast undergoes to embody their heroic roles. From hands-on sessions with real Chicago firefighters to mastering vital emergency procedures, the actors go above and beyond to bring authenticity to Firehouse 51.
Immersive Training with the CFD
To truly understand the demands of a firefighter’s life, many of the original “Chicago Fire” cast members, including Jesse Spencer (Matthew Casey) and Taylor Kinney (Kelly Severide), participated in extensive training at the Chicago Fire Department (CFD) Academy. This wasn’t just a casual visit; it was a deep dive into the physical and mental rigors of the profession.
- Fire Academy Immersion: Actors were reportedly put through various drills that mimic real-life scenarios, including navigating smoke-filled rooms, breaching doors, and performing search and rescue operations. Jesse Spencer once recounted a challenging experience in a “burn room” where he struggled to locate a dummy baby, highlighting the disorienting and chaotic nature of actual fires. He admitted to failing the drill, underscoring the immense difficulty and the importance of precise training for real firefighters.
- Wearing the Gear: A crucial aspect of their training involved getting accustomed to the heavy and cumbersome firefighting gear. The full ensemble, including bunker gear, helmets, and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) packs, can weigh upwards of 70 pounds. Actors learned to move, climb, and perform tasks while carrying this significant weight, adding to the realism of their on-screen movements.
- First Aid and Medical Procedures: For actors portraying paramedics like Kara Killmer (Sylvie Brett), training extended to emergency medical procedures. This included learning how to administer CPR, stabilize injuries, and handle various medical emergencies under pressure. While the show has medical consultants on set, understanding the fundamentals of emergency care is vital for their performances.
Learning from the Real Heroes
A key element in “Chicago Fire’s” commitment to authenticity is the involvement of actual firefighters as consultants and even recurring cast members. Anthony Ferraris, a real-life Chicago firefighter, plays the character “Tony” on the show and serves as a vital resource.
- On-Set Consultants: Ferraris and other active or retired CFD members are constantly on set, providing immediate feedback and guidance to the actors. They advise on everything from how to properly force a door open to the correct terminology and protocols used in emergency situations. This ensures that even the smallest details reflect reality.
- Observing and Absorbing: The actors also have the opportunity to do “ride-alongs” with real fire companies, observing their daily routines, emergency calls, and the camaraderie that defines a firehouse. This experiential learning is invaluable for developing their characters and understanding the unique bond among first responders.
The Toughest Scenes: Physicality and Emotion
While the training helps with the physical demands, actors often speak about the emotional toll and sheer intensity of certain scenes.
- Jesse Spencer has often praised the “invigorating” nature of the stunts, a stark contrast to his previous role as a doctor on “House.” He’s described scenes where he was “covered in fireproof gel” with flames “licking his face,” highlighting the controlled but intense environment of filming fire sequences. The physicality of pulling victims from overturned cars and hoisting heavy hoses is a constant challenge.
- Taylor Kinney has mentioned the demanding nature of the rescue scenes, which often require significant physical exertion and precision. While stunt doubles are utilized for the most dangerous moments, the actors themselves perform a substantial portion of the action.
- David Eigenberg (Christopher Herrmann) has spoken about the emotional difficulty of filming scenes involving character departures. He recalled an instance where cast members, including himself, were genuinely overcome with emotion during a farewell scene, making it challenging to maintain character. This speaks to the deep bonds formed not just by their characters, but by the actors themselves, living out these intense storylines together for years.
The dedication of the “Chicago Fire” cast to their training and their collaborative spirit with real firefighters are crucial to the show’s enduring success. It’s this commitment to authenticity that allows viewers to truly believe in the heroism and sacrifice of Firehouse 51.
