Bradway’s Surprise Departure
While Michael Bradway was only introduced in Season 12, his character, Jack Damon, quickly became a fan favorite. As Severide’s estranged brother, his sudden disappearance creates a gap in the emotional continuity of the series.
Bradway’s rising star power—especially with his role in Every Year After—makes his exit understandable, but fans are left with unanswered questions. Will the Severide family saga be resolved off-screen? Or does Newman plan a quieter sendoff?
Thematic Ramifications
Jack represented reconciliation and second chances—two of Chicago Fire‘s core themes. His relationship with Severide helped anchor Season 13’s mid-season arc. Without him, Firehouse 51 loses both a narrative foil and a personal connection for Kelly, who has already weathered abandonment, loss, and leadership fatigue.
The upcoming season is expected to briefly address his absence but shift focus quickly to newer recruits and the internal audit disrupting operations.
