Chicago Fire Boss Teases Carver Will Soon Return ‘With a Surprise’ — What Do You Think It Is?

The One Chicago universe knows how to stir the pot, and Chicago Fire just dropped a bombshell that has fans buzzing. Showrunner Andrea Newman recently teased that fan-favorite Sam Carver, played by Jake Lockett, will be making his return to Firehouse 51 in the upcoming episodes — but with a surprise twist that nobody saw coming.

While details are scarce, the implications are massive. Could we be looking at a major storyline shakeup, a mystery character introduction, or something even more dramatic?

Let’s break down what we know, what we can guess, and what it all could mean for the future of Chicago Fire.

Carver’s Exit: A Quick Recap

Who Is Sam Carver?

Sam Carver joined Chicago Fire in Season 11 as a firefighter with a rough edge and a mysterious past. His no-nonsense approach, occasional temper, and undeniable chemistry with paramedic Violet Mikami made him both a wildcard and a fan favorite.

Why Did He Leave?

In typical Chicago Fire fashion, Carver’s exit was left somewhat open-ended. After a traumatic incident involving an unstable rescue and unresolved tension with Violet, Carver decided to step back—leaving fans both heartbroken and hopeful.

His departure didn’t feel final. There was unfinished business. And now, thanks to Newman’s tease, we know the story isn’t over.

The Tease Heard ‘Round the Firehouse

In a recent interview with TVLine, Andrea Newman shared the following cryptic quote:

“Carver’s story is far from done. He’ll be returning soon… and let’s just say, he won’t be coming back alone. There’s a surprise in store, and it’s going to shake things up at 51.”

With that one statement, the Chicago Fire fandom exploded with speculation.

Fan Theories: What Could the ‘Surprise’ Be?

1. A Romantic Reveal

Carver and Violet had undeniable chemistry, and though nothing officially bloomed, many fans believe the embers are still hot.

Theory: Carver Returns With a Girlfriend — or a Baby

Imagine the drama if Carver comes back… with a serious romantic partner or even a child. That would immediately impact his dynamic with Violet, challenge the camaraderie within the team, and raise questions about what he’s been up to during his absence.

A twist like this would add soap-level drama to a show already known for its emotional weight.

2. A New Recruit or Protégé

Could Carver be returning with someone connected to his past?

Theory: Carver Brings a New Candidate to Firehouse 51

This could be someone he’s mentoring — perhaps a former military buddy, a sibling, or even a rookie he trained during his time away. This surprise would expand the cast, introduce new dynamics, and allow Carver to step into more of a leadership role.

If true, this would mirror the mentor-mentee relationships we’ve seen before (like Boden and Severide) and could offer growth for Carver’s character.

3. A Shocking Health or Injury Reveal

The show loves to explore the physical and emotional toll of firefighting.

Theory: Carver Returns Injured or Diagnosed With a Medical Condition

What if the “surprise” isn’t a person, but a situation? Carver may return with hidden injuries or a diagnosis that complicates his ability to serve. That kind of storyline would be deeply emotional — and set up rich storytelling potential as he fights to regain his role.

4. Ties to a New Crisis at 51

Every season needs a strong central arc — and Carver could be part of launching the next one.

Theory: Carver Returns With Info About a Major Threat or Backstory Twist

Think corrupt officials, a firefighter’s dark past, or a personal vendetta. This could position Carver as the key to unraveling something much larger, turning his return into a catalyst for the next firehouse-wide emergency.

What This Means for Firehouse 51

1. A Power Shift Could Be Coming

If Carver brings someone new or returns in a new role, it might shift dynamics within the team. Could he come back as a lieutenant-in-training? A transfer from another firehouse? A firefighter with new trauma and a different mindset?

Any of these options could throw off the balance and spark new tensions—or growth.

2. Violet and Carver: Unfinished Business

Fans who shipped “Varver” (Violet + Carver) know that things were left unsaid. Whether it’s reigniting romance or creating awkward distance, his return is bound to shake Violet emotionally.

Could This Lead to Conflict With Gallo?

Let’s not forget that Violet and Gallo have a long, complicated history. If Carver comes back with a new partner—or tries to pick up where he left off—it could reintroduce the love triangle no one was ready to let go of.

3. Boden’s Leadership Will Be Tested

Chief Boden has always been the glue holding 51 together. But a surprise like this will require strong leadership and delicate management.

If Carver’s return is disruptive, Boden may face tough calls: How much room do you give a firefighter who’s grown… or one who’s made big mistakes?

Behind the Scenes: Why Carver’s Return Makes Sense Now

1. Jake Lockett’s Popularity Is Rising

Jake Lockett brought grit and depth to Carver, making him one of the breakout stars of his season. Fans quickly latched on, praising his chemistry with the cast and his potential as a long-term player.

Bringing him back now, in the second half of Season 12 or early Season 13, makes perfect sense from both a fan-service and storytelling perspective.

2. The Show Needs a New Arc

With other key characters stepping back (and rumors swirling about future cast shake-ups), the return of a known quantity like Carver provides a sense of stability—and a path forward.

Introducing a new surprise with his character freshens up the arc without alienating fans who hate too much change too fast.

Surprise Possibilities We’re Not Ruling Out

Here are a few wildcard theories from the fandom worth mentioning:

• Carver’s surprise is a long-lost family member (a sibling, father, or even a child he didn’t know about).

• He’s undercover—maybe on assignment for OFI (Office of Fire Investigation).

• He’s now a whistleblower on shady practices he witnessed while away.

• He’s returned to propose a major career shift (training instructor, cross-department leader, or even… transferring to Chicago Med for paramedic training?).