David Eigenberg may be best known as the lovable, hot-headed Christopher Herrmann on Chicago Fire, but this seasoned actor is full of surprises — both on-screen and off. In one of our most memorable interviews yet, Eigenberg opens up about the behind-the-scenes boundaries, the unshakable bonds between cast members, and his unique connection to the Windy City.
If you think he looks familiar, you’re not wrong. Before he was serving drinks at Molly’s Pub, he was Steve Brady — the bartender-turned-husband on Sex and the City. Eigenberg has also graced the sets of Third Watch, Criminal Minds, NCIS, and Castle. On the big screen, you might remember him in A Perfect Murder or The Trouble with Romance.
But what really sets David apart is his unfiltered honesty and endearing eccentricity. Originally from Long Island, the 52-year-old was raised in Naperville, Illinois, which explains the unmistakable authenticity he brings to his Chicago Fire role. In a past interview with West Suburban Living, the former Marine poetically described Chicago as “raw” and “brutal”—but in the most beautiful way.
The man knows how to turn a phrase, too. In the same chat, he called himself “wispy,” “forlorn,” and even “handicapped”—leaving us wondering whether we’re talking to a philosopher, a performer, or both. And when it comes to showbiz icons, he holds Spencer Tracy in the highest regard and still fondly remembers Welcome Back, Kotter as his favorite show.
What’s truly off-limits behind the scenes of Chicago Fire? You’ll have to catch his video interview to hear the hilarious—and surprisingly heartfelt—answer. Let’s just say, there’s a certain unwritten rule among cast and crew that even firehouse veterans don’t break.
Beyond the screen, Eigenberg is as grounded as they come — a devoted husband and father, and one of the most genuine people to interview. Chicago Tribune journalist Jenniffer Weigel once called him “patient, kind and genuine.” We couldn’t agree more.
Don’t miss David’s latest take on set life and cast camaraderie in our exclusive video at Parade.com, and be sure to catch the Chicago Fire midseason premiere when it returns January 3 at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.
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