Inside Novak’s season 13 arc, her unexpected chemistry, and what she’s hoping for next.
With Chicago Fire heating up for a major shake-up in Season 14, there’s one new addition fans hope sticks around: Jocelyn Hudon’s Lyla Novak. Originally hesitant to settle in at Firehouse 51, Novak has grown into one of the most grounded, dependable, and quietly fierce members of Ambulance 61 — and according to Hudon, she’s just getting started.
🫶 From Outsider to Family: Novak’s Season 13 Journey
Season 13 saw Novak go from the reluctant new girl to a full-fledged member of the 51 family. Looking back, Hudon says Novak feels completely at home now.
“She’s in it. She’s found a family at 51,” Hudon said.
“She fits in, and I don’t think she has any changes coming up.”
While the firehouse braces for major changes — with Carver and Ritter exiting and Pascal’s future uncertain — Novak’s role on the ambo seems solid. And Hudon hopes it stays that way.
💙 The Power of the Novak-Violet Partnership
At the heart of Novak’s story is her dynamic with Violet (Hanako Greensmith). Together, they’ve become a powerhouse duo on the job — balancing each other with sharp contrast and deep trust.
“Violet’s serious and driven, and Novak lightens her up. She’s there to support her completely,” Hudon explained.
One standout moment came in episode 8, during a tense C-section scene.
“That was a crucial episode for their bond. When Violet told Novak to go, she said, ‘No, I’m staying with you.’ That’s who Novak is.”
🎭 Off-Duty Fun & Roommate Shenanigans
While Novak and Violet shine in the field, their off-duty scenes — especially at Molly’s — show their more personal side. But when it comes to living arrangements?
“Her and Violet living together would be too much,” Hudon laughed.
“Ritter was a great roommate. She kind of wore him down into letting her move in.”
With Ritter leaving, Novak’s next roommate could become a new subplot in Season 14.
❤️ Casual Flings or Future Romance?
Novak’s love life is still up in the air. While things with Damon (Michael Bradway) were casual, there was definitely some flirtation happening when she popped over to Chicago Med and met Dr. John Frost (Darren Barnet).
“There’s something there with Frost. Damon kind of rejected her, so who knows? But Novak’s keeping it cool.”
A cross-show love triangle? Yes, please.
🚨 Dream Crossover: Novak Meets P.D.?
Jocelyn Hudon isn’t shy about her big wish for Novak’s future — a Chicago P.D. crossover.
“I’ve been to Med, now I want to pop into P.D. I think Novak getting pulled into an investigation would be amazing.”
“Like if the ambulance gets robbed — I’d love some P.D. action for the ambo girls.”
🎬 Favorite Scenes & Emotional Highlights
From adrenaline-filled rescues to heartfelt moments, Hudon singled out a few of her favorite filming experiences:
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The emotionally charged C-section scene with Violet.
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The bench conversation with the chief after a suicide call, where Novak opens up about her fears of letting people in.
“She’s never fully committed to something before, and that scene showed how much 51 is changing her.”
🔮 What’s Next for Novak in Season 14?
Novak’s future at Firehouse 51 looks bright — stable, loved, and full of story potential. Hudon’s only request?
“More crossover, maybe with Kidd or Severide. We haven’t interacted much, and I think that would be cool.”
Whether she’s riding the ambo, tackling trauma, or popping into a neighboring series, one thing’s clear: Novak isn’t going anywhere — and we’re all better for it.
📅 Catch Novak and the rest of Firehouse 51 when Chicago Fire Season 14 returns this Fall, Wednesdays at 9/8c on NBC.
