In the weeks leading up to the Chicago Fire Season 13 finale, pressure was mounting on Herrmann (David Eigenberg) to take the reins at Firehouse 51. With Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) under scrutiny and Commissioner Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker) returning, the future of the firehouse felt uncertain.
But in a moving twist, Herrmann made the heartfelt decision to step aside from a desk job—choosing instead to remain a firefighter. That selfless act cleared the way for his long-time friend, Mouch (Christian Stolte), to step up as lieutenant in a deeply emotional moment that left fans cheering and tearing up.
Showrunner Andrea Newman opened up to ScreenRant about how this arc was always part of the plan. “The moment Dermot stepped on set as Pascal, we knew he was going to change the dynamic,” she explained. “But at the end of the day, the real story was always about Herrmann—what kind of leader he wants to be, and what kind of legacy he wants to leave.”
The finale tied together major threads: Monica’s death, Pascal’s redemption arc, Boden’s mentorship, and Mouch’s underdog journey—all culminating in a scene of raw brotherhood and loyalty.
Newman continued: “The auditor tells them, ‘You guys could be gone any minute. The clock is ticking.’ Herrmann hears that and decides, ‘I want Mouch to have this moment. He’s my best friend.’ That kind of gesture? That’s what makes Chicago Fire special.”
What’s Next for Season 14?
With Firehouse 51 heading into uncharted territory, Season 14 promises big changes:
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Mouch must rise to the challenge as lieutenant.
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Herrmann adjusts to a pay cut while continuing to support his large family.
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Stella Kidd and Severide face pressure as they consider starting a family.
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Pascal continues to earn trust in the aftermath of Monica’s loss.
“There’s so much to explore,” Newman teased. “And so much heart still beating in Firehouse 51.”
Chicago Fire returns this fall on NBC. Stay tuned for updates as the brotherhood faces its next test.
