Chicago Fire is about to face a significant change as two beloved characters, Sam Carver (Jake Lockett) and Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri), are officially leaving the show at the end of Season 13. NBC confirmed their exits in May 2025, sparking an outpouring of emotions from the show’s devoted fanbase. As Firehouse 51 goes through a major cast reshuffling, let’s take a moment to reflect on the impact these two characters had on the team—and what their departures mean for the future of the show.
Carver’s Personal Journey: Sobriety and Self-Discovery
Sam Carver’s exit is a deeply personal one, resonating with fans who have witnessed his ongoing struggles with addiction and his attempt to rebuild his life. Carver has always been a complex character—hardworking, dedicated to the team, but also dealing with demons that have threatened to derail his career and relationships. In his final storyline, Carver makes the decision to leave Chicago and focus on his sobriety, marking a powerful and emotional turning point for the character.
Fans who have followed Carver’s journey over the seasons know how difficult this path has been for him, and his choice to walk away from Firehouse 51 isn’t one he takes lightly. This departure is likely to leave a hole in the hearts of many viewers who’ve rooted for Carver through thick and thin. One fan wrote on social media, “Carver’s growth was everything. I’m going to miss him more than I expected,” expressing the collective sentiment of those who saw the character’s evolution and struggle.
This heartfelt storyline serves as a reminder of the human side of first responders. Carver’s decision to take control of his health and future rather than stay stuck in a destructive cycle reflects the importance of self-care, even in the high-pressure world of Chicago’s firefighters.
Ritter’s Quiet Goodbye: The Soul of the Crew
Darren Ritter’s exit, while quieter than Carver’s, is no less significant. Ritter has been the steady presence in the engine room, often the heart of Firehouse 51, with a sense of loyalty and camaraderie that made him indispensable. His relationship with his colleagues, especially with Carver, has been a grounding force within the team, helping bring balance and support in moments of crisis.
Ritter’s departure, however, is marked by a quieter choice to leave, but not without leaving a lasting impression on the team. After years of working behind the scenes, Ritter decides to step away, leaving fans hopeful that his exit isn’t permanent. One fan shared, “Ritter was the soul of that crew. This hurts,” capturing the sense of loss that fans feel as the show says goodbye to this beloved character.
Though Ritter may not have had the spotlight as often as some of the other characters, his contribution to the heart and soul of Firehouse 51 cannot be overlooked. His absence will surely be felt, especially by his closest colleagues, and the door is left open for a potential return—something many fans are hoping for as they bid him farewell for now.
Fan Reactions: A Flood of Tributes
The departure of Carver and Ritter has sparked a massive response from fans across social media, who are expressing their sadness and gratitude for the characters’ contributions to the show. Chicago Fire has built a loyal fanbase over the years, and the exits of these two beloved firefighters have left many feeling the weight of the loss. Tributes and heartfelt messages have flooded Twitter and Instagram, with fans remembering the moments that made Carver and Ritter such integral parts of the team.
One fan wrote, “I’ve always loved Carver’s journey. He grew so much, and I’m so proud of him for choosing his health over everything else. Wishing him nothing but the best in his future!” Another echoed, “Ritter was always there for the team, no matter what. It’s going to be hard without him.”
For many fans, these departures mark the end of an era for Firehouse 51. Carver and Ritter represented the resilience, the struggles, and the heart of what makes Chicago Fire such a compelling show. Their storylines were often about more than just fighting fires—they were about overcoming personal battles, supporting each other, and finding strength in the face of adversity.
What’s Next for Firehouse 51?
As Chicago Fire continues on without Carver and Ritter, the question on everyone’s mind is: what happens next for the team? The show will undoubtedly have to adjust to these departures, and while new characters may fill the void, there will always be a gap left by the ones who have been with the show for so long.
Carver and Ritter’s exits will force the team to adapt, but it’s also an opportunity for other characters to step up and take on new leadership roles. As Chicago Fire heads into the next chapter, viewers will see how the firehouse evolves without these two figures who have played such a pivotal role in the dynamic of the crew.
Despite the sadness surrounding their exits, Carver and Ritter’s stories are far from over. The impact they’ve had on the show will remain, and fans will continue to celebrate the legacies they leave behind. Whether they return in the future or not, one thing is clear: these two characters have made an indelible mark on Chicago Fire, and they will be missed.
