When Chicago Fire returns for its 14th season this fall, Station 51 will look a little different. In the wake of two fan-favorite departures, showrunners have tapped rising star Brandon Larracuente (“On Call,” The Good Doctor) to join the ranks as a series regular—promising plenty of new sparks on and off the rigs of Truck 81.
🚒 The Double Exit That Stirred Station 51
Season 13’s finale delivered a gut punch to viewers when Jake Lockett (Firefighter Sam Carver) and Daniel Kyri (Firefighter Darren Ritter) were confirmed not to return as full-time cast members for Season 14.
-
Carver’s Cliffhanger: In the last episode, Sam revealed he’d applied for a position at the Denver Fire Department—only to share a surprise kiss with Violet (Adriyan Rae), reigniting their on-again, off-again romance.
-
Ritter’s Silent Farewell: Darren vanished without explanation, leaving fans speculating whether his untold exit might involve undercover work, an injury, or a transfer that spares him from on-screen goodbyes.
Truth be told, budget cuts forced at least part of these exits, but showrunner Andrea Newman assures us both heroes are far from forgotten.
“We love Jake and Daniel—and their characters,” Newman told TVLine. “They may not be series regulars, but we hope to bring them back for the emotional closure fans deserve.”
🔥 Enter Brandon Larracuente: The New Kid on the Block
Stepping into this high-pressure world is Brandon Larracuente, whose previous credits hint at versatility—and chemistry. While NBC and Variety haven’t confirmed his role, insiders speculate he’ll fill one of the vacant spots on Truck 81.
-
A Natural Fit: Larracuente’s boy-next-door charm (and dramatic chops) could make him a perfect foil for Lt. Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) or Lt. Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo).
-
Room to Grow: As a series regular, expect his character to navigate rookie anxieties, station politics, and perhaps even a seasonal love interest—continuing Chicago Fire’s tradition of blending heart-stopping rescues with heartfelt relationships.
💪 Station 51’s Core Stays Strong
Amid these changes, viewers can rest easy knowing the show’s pillars remain in place:
-
Taylor Kinney just inked a new deal as Lt. Kelly Severide, continuing his roller-coaster partnership with Kidd.
-
Miranda Rae Mayo returns as Lt. Stella Kidd, Station 51’s moral compass and fearless leader.
-
Dermot Mulroney (Chief Wallace “Domenic” Pascal) also secured a multi-season extension, promising plenty of mentor-mentee drama.
These stalwarts will welcome Larracuente’s character into the fold—training him under the station’s tried-and-true motto: “Leave No One Behind.”
🔄 What’s Next for Carver and Ritter?
Newman remains tight-lipped about specific storylines, but teases “lots of possibilities” for guest appearances. Will Carver and Violet’s rekindled flame survive a bi-coastal romance? Might Ritter return as an undercover specialist on a high-stakes assignment? If early Chicago Fire history is any guide, never say never.
🌟 Why These Changes Matter
After 13 seasons, Chicago Fire thrives by evolving. Each cast shake-up injects fresh energy:
-
Raising the Stakes: New faces mean new relationships—both friendly and fraught.
-
Reflecting Real Life: Firefighting crews always shift as people retire, relocate, or pursue other paths.
-
Creative Momentum: Bringing in talent like Larracuente keeps storylines unpredictable and the ensemble dynamic.
🔥 Ready for Season 14?
With a blend of trusted heroes, a captivating newcomer, and the promise of fan-favorite crossovers, Chicago Fire is set to blaze new trails. As the sirens call—and Station 51 turns the page—one thing is certain: this season’s rescues will be as heart-pounding as ever.
Premieres: NBC, Fall 2025
Follow #ChicagoFire on social for casting updates, sneak peeks, and first-look footage.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Soaps.com may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links.
