Daniel Kyri has captivated audiences as firefighter Darren Ritter on NBC’s Chicago Fire, bringing depth and relatability to the beloved character since his debut in Season 7. Teaming up with fan favorites like Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) and Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg), Kyri’s Ritter isn’t just a hero battling flames—he’s also a budding entrepreneur, helping his friends Violet Mikami and Blake Gallo launch their microbrewery venture.
While Chicago Fire fans know him as a dependable part of Firehouse 51, Kyri’s transformation from a creative child on Chicago’s South Side to a standout actor in the city’s prestigious theater scene is a story of passion, resilience, and self-discovery.
From Reality TV to Theater Dreams
Kyri’s creative journey began early. Born and raised in Chicago, he nurtured his artistic side through books, poetry, and school drama classes. He eventually earned a B.A. in Theatre Performance from the University of Illinois at Chicago. But Kyri’s first on-screen appearance came in an unexpected form: as “D.K.” on CBS’s reality series Kid Nation in 2007. The show challenged 40 kids to live without adults in a ghost town, showcasing Kyri’s adaptability and leadership skills even as a teenager.
Despite his early brush with television, Kyri’s heart was set on theater. Inspired by authors like Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou, he found his first acting opportunity thanks to his uncle, Reuben Echoles, a respected theater professional who cast Kyri in his first production. From there, Kyri explored the stage, honing his craft and expanding his worldview through storytelling.
Rising Through Chicago’s Theater Scene
Kyri’s theatrical talent quickly earned him roles with some of Chicago’s most renowned theater companies. He performed in Steppenwolf Theatre’s Ms. Blakk for President, Goodman Theatre’s Objects in the Mirror, and Lookingglass Theatre’s Moby Dick. Reflecting on his experiences, Kyri described theater as “an actor’s playground,” where he could explore emotions and connect with audiences in a deeply personal way.
During this time, Kyri also ventured into film and television. He appeared as Logan in the indie film Henry Gamble’s Birthday Party and as Brock in the TV mini-series Saranormal.
A Breakthrough Year: Web Series, Hamlet, and Chicago Fire
The year 2018 marked a creative turning point for Kyri. He co-created, wrote, and starred in the web series The T., which explored themes of identity and relationships in six episodes. Around the same time, he delivered a standout performance as Hamlet in the Gift Theatre’s production of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, earning praise from the Chicago Tribune.
It was during this theatrical run that Kyri auditioned for Dick Wolf’s One Chicago universe. He first appeared on Chicago Med as Lane Tucker in the episode “Devil in Disguise.” Though the character was short-lived, Kyri’s talent didn’t go unnoticed. He soon landed the role of Darren Ritter on Chicago Fire, solidifying his place in the franchise.
Embracing the Role of a Firehouse Hero
Since joining Chicago Fire, Kyri has brought heart and authenticity to Darren Ritter. His character’s mix of bravery, humor, and humanity resonates with fans, reflecting Kyri’s own journey of transformation. From his early days imagining worlds inspired by science fiction to becoming a staple in Chicago’s vibrant creative community, Kyri’s path is a testament to the power of following one’s passions.
