Daniel Kyri, who plays the ever-reliable Darren Ritter on Chicago Fire, may not always take center stage on the show, but his impact extends far beyond Firehouse 51. While the series is currently on its winter hiatus, Kyri has been busy off-screen, showing love and support for the city that inspired the One Chicago universe.
On Sunday, December 15, Kyri was the Guest of Honor at St. Regis Chicago’s 2nd Annual “12 Days of Sabrage” Evening Ritual. The event wasn’t just an opportunity for festivities; it had a noble mission: to collect and distribute winter gear for local children living in homeless or low-income circumstances.
Supporting Local Charities with Star Power
Kyri brought his Chicago Fire fame to the forefront, promoting the event on his Instagram and encouraging donations to help vulnerable children during the harsh winter months. As a Chicago native, his commitment to uplifting the community is deeply personal.
Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Kyri often speaks about how the city has shaped both his personal life and his career. During a 2024 interview with Wolf Entertainment, he expressed his pride in being able to represent Chicago onscreen, highlighting the unique connection he feels to the city and its residents.
“I love this city,” Kyri said. “And it really is a privilege to be doing what I do.” He also noted how his upbringing in Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods has informed his portrayal of Darren Ritter, bringing authenticity to the character and the situations he faces on the show.
Using Life Experiences to Shape His Role
Kyri has always been open about how his real-life experiences in Chicago help him ground Ritter in reality. He brings a layer of honesty and relatability to his character, who is known for his resourcefulness and compassion under pressure. Just as Ritter is a problem solver on Chicago Fire, Kyri applies that same quality to his real-world efforts, using his platform to advocate for causes close to his heart.
Despite Kyri’s thriving career, Ritter has faced challenges during Chicago Fire season 13. After suffering an on-the-job injury earlier this season, the character temporarily stepped back from duty. In an interview with Us Weekly, Kyri admitted that portraying Ritter during this difficult period was emotionally taxing, saying, “It got me down for a bit.” Fortunately, Ritter has made a full recovery, returning to the camaraderie and action alongside beloved Firehouse 51 figures like Mouch (Christian Stolte) and Herrmann (David Eigenberg).
A Star Committed to Chicago’s Success
Kyri’s dedication to his hometown is more than just words. Events like the “12 Days of Sabrage” demonstrate his willingness to roll up his sleeves and actively work to better the lives of others in the city. By leveraging his Chicago Fire fame and his personal connection to Chicago, Kyri has become a vital advocate for its communities, proving that even during a hiatus, his work is far from over.
For fans, Kyri’s dual role as an actor and community champion is a reminder of the real-world impact of the One Chicago franchise. As Chicago Fire continues into its 13th season, both Kyri and Ritter are bound to remain bright spots, both on and off the screen.
