The winter premiere of Chicago Fire Season 13 promises drama, tension, and possibly a major shake-up at Firehouse 51. One burning question looms large: will Chief Dom Pascal, played by Dermot Mulroney, survive the dangers hinted at in the latest promo? Since his introduction this season, Pascal has been a compelling and well-received addition, but his future on the show now hangs in the balance.
Is Chief Pascal in Danger?
The promo for Episode 9, which airs on January 8, 2025, reveals Pascal in action, leading his team into a perilous situation. The scene ends with Pascal at the forefront, entering a burning building—a moment that has fans speculating about whether he will fall victim to a heroic sacrifice.
Although Pascal has been working hard to integrate into the Firehouse 51 team, his tenure has been marked by challenges. While progress has been made, he hasn’t fully earned the crew’s trust. This uncertainty makes his potential departure all the more emotionally charged for viewers who are just beginning to warm up to him.
What’s Next for Firehouse 51?
One key subplot that could influence Pascal’s fate is Christopher Herrmann’s recent Captain’s exam. Played by David Eigenberg, Herrmann is a veteran of Firehouse 51 and has a long-standing connection to the team. If Herrmann passes the exam, it might pave the way for a leadership shift—potentially replacing Pascal if he’s incapacitated or sidelined.
Eigenberg addressed the delicate situation in a recent interview, sharing his conflicted feelings about Mulroney’s character:
“Dermot has been a wonderful addition. I’m really torn. Honestly, I don’t know what they’re going to do, and I can say I don’t want him to leave.”
Interestingly, Herrmann’s advancement could take him beyond Firehouse 51, perhaps into a Chief position at another station. This possibility only adds to the intrigue surrounding Pascal’s role and whether his character is here to stay.
Mulroney’s Track Record with One Chicago
Dermot Mulroney’s appearance on Chicago Fire follows a pattern seen throughout the One Chicago franchise: high-profile guest stars who leave a significant impression but have relatively short arcs. Past examples include Anne Heche and John C. McGinley, whose characters made major impacts before exiting.
Given this history, it’s plausible that Mulroney’s Chief Pascal was introduced as a transitional figure, bridging the gap between Chief Boden (Eamonn Walker) and the next permanent leader of Firehouse 51.
Fan Speculation and Emotional Stakes
Fans are abuzz with theories about Pascal’s future. Some believe the character might be a casualty of the intense winter premiere, aligning with the show’s reputation for dramatic twists. Others think Pascal could survive but move on to another role, allowing Herrmann or another familiar face to take charge.
The tension surrounding Pascal’s fate also highlights the broader unpredictability of Chicago Fire. Over the years, the series has become known for its willingness to shake up the status quo, keeping viewers invested in every twist and turn.
A Tense Winter Premiere Ahead
The winter premiere of Chicago Fire Season 13 is shaping up to be an emotional and high-stakes episode. Whether Chief Pascal survives or not, the fallout is sure to have lasting effects on Firehouse 51. Fans will have to wait until January 8, 2025, to see how the drama unfolds—and to find out whether Pascal’s tenure on the show is destined for a heroic end or a second chance.
