Chief Wallace Boden’s departure from Chicago Fire left big shoes to fill, and his replacement, Dom Pascal, initially struggled to win over Firehouse 51. Season 13, episode 6 (“Birds of Prey”), however, managed to repair Pascal’s rocky introduction with just one pivotal scene. Here’s how the new chief turned things around and why he might just be the worthy successor Boden fans have been hoping for.
A Rocky Start for Chief Pascal
Dom Pascal entered Firehouse 51 with high expectations but faced immediate skepticism from the team. As a veteran firefighter from Miami, Pascal isn’t new to the job, but his transition back to Chicago raised questions about his background and experience. His no-nonsense style, which differs greatly from Chief Boden’s warm leadership, initially created friction, especially with key team members like Kelly Severide and Stella Kidd, who shared a deep bond with Boden.
In the early episodes of Season 13, Pascal struggled to establish trust and rapport. His abrupt style and distant approach made it challenging for the close-knit team at Firehouse 51 to connect with him. It seemed like Pascal was out of his depth—until his unexpected collaboration with Severide in “Birds of Prey” shifted perceptions.
A Turning Point: Teaming Up with Severide
Episode 6 sees Firehouse 51 responding to a suspicious blaze that hints at arson. Severide and Pascal team up to investigate, but their efforts are met with resistance from the State Troopers handling the case. When Pascal suddenly orders Severide to back off, tensions flare, making it seem like the new chief is aligning with corrupt officials. This moment could have sealed Pascal’s fate as an untrustworthy outsider, but the episode takes a surprising twist.
In a private confrontation, Severide challenges Pascal’s decision to cooperate with the Troopers. Instead of deflecting, Pascal reveals the truth: the Troopers tried to recruit him into their illegal activities, but he played along to gather evidence and expose them. This moment of honesty changes everything. Pascal’s willingness to confide in Severide not only shows integrity but also marks the first real step towards building trust within the team.
Why Gaining Severide’s Trust Matters
By opening up to Severide, Pascal proves that he’s not just another rigid, rule-following leader—he’s someone willing to take risks to do what’s right. This integrity earns him Severide’s respect, which is crucial in a firehouse that values loyalty and camaraderie. Gaining the trust of one of Firehouse 51’s most respected members can pave the way for Pascal to win over the rest of the team.
This scene is a significant turning point for Pascal’s character. Up until now, he had struggled to connect with the crew, but his strategic approach and honesty in this situation reveal layers to his leadership style. He’s not merely a by-the-book chief; he’s a complex figure who’s willing to adapt and play the long game to serve justice.
What’s Next for Chief Pascal?
Although Pascal’s integrity is now more evident, Chicago Fire still has plenty of room to explore his character further. Pascal’s backstory, particularly his time in Miami and his earlier years in Chicago, remains a mystery. Unveiling more about his past could help deepen his connection with both the team and the viewers, similar to how Chief Boden’s arc evolved over 12 seasons.
As the arson investigation unfolds, there’s an opportunity to showcase Pascal’s skills and further prove his worth as a leader. While it’s too early to say if he’ll ever fully replace Boden in the hearts of the fans, the groundwork has been laid for a promising future.
The Verdict: Can Pascal Step Into Boden’s Role?
Replacing a beloved character like Chief Boden was always going to be a tall order, but Pascal’s actions in “Birds of Prey” show that he might have what it takes. By gaining Severide’s trust and standing up against corruption, he’s made a strong case for himself as a capable leader. There’s still much to learn about Pascal, but this episode offers a glimpse of a chief who’s willing to fight for what’s right—a trait that could make him a worthy successor to Boden after all.
