For fans of Chicago Fire, the bond between Joe Cruz (Joe Miñoso) and Brian “Otis” Zvonecek (Yuri Sardarov) remains one of the show’s most heartfelt relationships, even years after Otis’ tragic death. Since the series premiered in 2012, Cruz and Otis’ friendship has been a cornerstone of Firehouse 51, and Otis’ untimely passing in the Chicago Fire season 7 finale left an indelible mark on both the characters and fans.
In an exclusive interview with Screen Rant, Joe Miñoso opened up about how Otis continues to influence Cruz’s journey, both on-screen and in his personal life. Miñoso also reflected on his close friendship with Sardarov, highlighting the enduring connection they share.
“There Is No Cruz Without Otis”: Miñoso Reflects on Friendship and Loss
Miñoso shared how deeply intertwined Otis and Cruz’s characters were, not just on the show but also behind the scenes. Their connection, he explained, was forged during their first days on set.
“My son’s name is Otis. I would say as impactful as Yuri is to my life,” Miñoso said. “Yuri and I were the last two cast on the show. Everybody had already been here for a week doing fireman camp stuff, and we came in on the last day of all of that and sort of got a crash course in everything together, so me and him have been tied at the hip since the very first episode. He’s one of my closest, dearest friends.”
The actor recalled a recent visit by Sardarov to the set of Chicago Fire, which stirred up feelings of nostalgia. “To not have him on our set—he recently visited us. I think it was the beginning of the season. He visited the set and got to see a lot of people, and it brought up a lot of old feelings,” Miñoso revealed. “He’s the absolute best human. I love him. I will always love him.”
Otis’ death left a void in Firehouse 51, but his memory continues to inspire Cruz. As Miñoso put it, “There is no Cruz without Otis. The relationship we had on the show is what made us successful. They are always one. He is the yin to my yang, for sure.”
How Otis’ Legacy Shapes Cruz’s Future
Otis’ presence lingers in Cruz’s life, not just through memories but also through his son, whom Cruz named after his late friend. This heartfelt tribute underscores the deep bond they shared and ensures Otis’ legacy lives on.
Cruz has come a long way since Otis’ death, evolving as a firefighter, a husband, and now a father. Yet, his personal and professional challenges continue to test him. In recent episodes, Cruz finds himself entangled in dangerous situations, including being blackmailed and dragged into a robbery at Firehouse 51.
These events could force Cruz to confront his past and his choices, potentially leading to guilt over dishonoring Otis’ memory. However, Miñoso’s portrayal of Cruz suggests a character rooted in bravery and resilience—qualities inspired by Otis’ enduring influence.
Otis’ final words to Cruz, “Brother, I will be with you always,” serve as a guiding light for Cruz as he navigates the turmoil in his life. Whether facing moral dilemmas or life-threatening situations, Cruz continues to draw strength from his friend’s memory.
A Question of Legacy and Redemption
The uncertainty surrounding Cruz’s future on Chicago Fire leaves fans wondering if his recent challenges could lead to his departure. Regardless of where Cruz’s journey takes him, Otis’ impact remains a constant. The bond they shared reflects the heart of Chicago Fire—a story of camaraderie, sacrifice, and unbreakable ties.
As the series continues to delve into Cruz’s struggles, viewers can expect his love for Otis to shape his decisions and offer moments of reflection amid the chaos of Firehouse 51.
Chicago Fire season 13 airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.
