He’s not the loudest. He’s not the flashiest. But Darren Ritter, played by Daniel Kyri, has become one of the most beloved members of Chicago Fire—and fans are finally realizing just how important he is.
Ritter’s character has grown quietly and steadily, offering heart, courage, and emotional depth in every scene. Whether he’s offering support to a teammate or risking his life in a rescue, Kyri brings a sincerity to Ritter that stands out in a show packed with high-octane action.
“Ritter is the soul of the firehouse,” one fan wrote. “Daniel Kyri deserves more screen time!”
As one of the few openly LGBTQ+ characters in the One Chicago universe, Ritter also represents the future of network TV: honest, authentic, and deeply human. With Season 13 on the way, many fans are hoping this is the year Kyri gets the spotlight he’s earned.
