There’s a new firefighter walking through the doors of Firehouse 51, and he’s about to shake things up in more ways than one. Chicago Fire Season 14 introduces Sal Vasquez, a confident, battle-ready first responder played by Brandon Larracuente (13 Reasons Why, The Good Doctor). But don’t mistake his swagger for arrogance—according to Larracuente, Vasquez is much more complicated than he first appears.
“I always say Sal is like an onion,” Larracuente teases in an interview with NBC Insider. “On the surface, he may appear a certain way, but once you peel back the layers, you realize there’s a reason for his confidence—and you’ll see that he’s also vulnerable underneath it all.”
A Confident Arrival at Firehouse 51
Firehouse 51 is famously tight-knit. Veterans like Kelly Severide, Stella Kidd, and Joe Cruz don’t always welcome newcomers with open arms—rookies usually need to earn trust the hard way. Larracuente admits Vasquez isn’t the type to blend quietly into the background.
“Sal is really confident in his ability to be a firefighter. He knows his stuff, and he knows how to do his job,” Larracuente explains. “But that kind of self-assurance can sometimes rub people the wrong way. It can be misread as cockiness.”
Fans can expect some early tension as Vasquez finds his footing in the firehouse. But, as Larracuente points out, confidence is just the exterior. “The people around him will eventually understand that his demeanor comes from deeper experiences—and from the pressure he carries.”
A Legacy of Service
One of Vasquez’s most defining traits is his upbringing. Coming from a family of law enforcement, Sal’s worldview has been shaped by discipline, duty, and an expectation to serve.
“His father was a police officer, and that really influenced who Sal is,” Larracuente shares. “As the season goes on, you’ll learn how that shaped his personality, his values, and even some of the conflicts he faces.”
That backstory isn’t just filler—it’s the foundation for how Vasquez interacts with his colleagues and handles crises. His drive to prove himself isn’t about ego; it’s about legacy.
Layers Beneath the Armor
While Vasquez may stride into the firehouse with bravado, Larracuente says Season 14 will peel back his protective shell. “On the surface, he’s composed, he’s capable, he’s sure of himself. But as the season progresses, life starts chipping away at that armor,” he hints.
Family struggles, relationship dynamics, and the high-stakes demands of firefighting will challenge Vasquez in ways he can’t always mask. “When you’re dealing with family issues and firehouse dynamics, you start to crumble as a human being,” Larracuente explains. “It’s nice to see the other characters lift him up. That’s when Firehouse 51 becomes more than just a workplace—it becomes a family.”
A Ripple Effect on Firehouse 51
According to Larracuente, Vasquez won’t just grow individually—his presence will impact the entire firehouse. “The writers are leaning into the drama this season, especially with Sal. As we peel back the layers, it doesn’t just affect him. It starts to bleed into the relationships around him,” he reveals.
That means Vasquez’s struggles and triumphs could spark ripple effects throughout the firehouse, creating new tensions, alliances, and perhaps even friendships fans didn’t see coming.
A New Era for Chicago Fire
As Chicago Fire enters its 14th season, the show continues to evolve while honoring the traditions that made it a fan favorite. With Severide back in the fold, Stella balancing leadership, and Cruz stepping up as a mentor, Vasquez’s arrival is perfectly timed to bring new energy—and maybe a little drama—into the firehouse.
For Larracuente, joining the One Chicago universe is an honor. “It’s such a privilege to be part of a franchise with this kind of history and fanbase. And I think people are going to connect with Sal, even when he makes mistakes, because at the end of the day, he’s human.”
Don’t Miss the Debut
Fans can meet Sal Vasquez when Chicago Fire Season 14 premieres Wednesday, October 1, at 9/8c on NBC, as part of the One Chicago lineup. Chicago Med kicks off the night at 8/7c, followed by Chicago Fire, and then Chicago P.D. at 10/9c. Episodes will be available to stream the next day on Peacock.
With a character as layered as Vasquez, Season 14 promises not only explosive action but also a deep dive into what it means to be part of Firehouse 51’s family.
