Chicago Fire season 13 is back in full swing, and its latest storyline delves into a dramatic thread that dates back to season 1. This intriguing development could serve as the perfect opportunity to bring fan-favorite Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer) back to Firehouse 51.
Jesse Spencer exited the NBC procedural in season 10 when Casey moved to Oregon to become the legal guardian of Andrew Darden’s sons after their mother’s arrest. Since then, he’s made occasional returns, including his involvement in a special task force and his memorable wedding to Sylvie Brett in season 12. However, neither Casey nor Brett has reappeared at Firehouse 51 since their wedding.
Now, with a tense throwback storyline revolving around Joe Cruz (Joe Miñoso), season 13 offers the ideal scenario for Casey’s return.
Cruz’s Past Comes Back to Haunt Him
The foundation for this storyline was laid all the way back in season 1. Cruz made a morally fraught decision to let gang leader Flaco die in a fire to protect his brother. Fast forward more than a decade, and Flaco’s cousin, Junior, has been released from prison and is determined to make Cruz pay.
In episode 9 of season 13, Junior blackmails Cruz into participating in a dangerous heist. Things spiral out of control, leading to a shootout that leaves Junior dead and Cruz injured with a gunshot wound. Even though Junior is gone, Cruz remains trapped in his secret and his guilt, unsure of how to move forward.
Why Casey Is the Perfect Confidant
Throughout Chicago Fire, Casey has been a steadying presence for Cruz. He was the one Cruz trusted to confide in about Flaco’s death all those years ago. While Casey is now across the country, his deep understanding of Cruz’s moral struggles makes him the ideal person to offer guidance.
Even if Casey doesn’t physically return to Chicago, a phone call or remote interaction could provide Cruz the clarity and support he desperately needs. Cruz has reached a breaking point, and he must lean on someone who truly knows his story to navigate his current turmoil.
Joe Miñoso himself has hinted at the potential impact of Casey’s involvement. Speaking to Cinemablend, Miñoso explained, “Jesse Spencer [as] Casey was the one who [Cruz] really tried to confess to and really knows, but he’s long gone. The new people in the firehouse have no clue, and I think he wants to keep it that way.”
A Chance for Redemption
If Jesse Spencer were to reprise his role in season 13, it would not only elevate Cruz’s arc but also highlight the enduring bond of Firehouse 51. Casey’s return—whether brief or extended—would feel organic, given his history with Cruz and his knack for offering sound advice during crises.
Even without Casey’s involvement, Miñoso teased that Kelly Severide might step in to uncover the truth. Severide’s investigative instincts could lead him to suspect something is wrong with Cruz, adding another layer of tension to the storyline.
Still, Casey’s presence would bring a sense of closure and redemption to Cruz’s journey. It would underscore the theme of loyalty and brotherhood that has always defined Chicago Fire.
Looking Ahead in Chicago Fire Season 13
As the season unfolds, it remains to be seen how Cruz will handle the fallout from Junior’s death and his own unresolved guilt. Whether it’s Casey, Severide, or another member of Firehouse 51, someone will have to step in to help Cruz find a way forward.
For fans, the possibility of seeing Matt Casey again is enough to reignite excitement. The deep connection between these characters and the show’s focus on relationships make this the perfect moment for Casey’s return, even if only for a brief appearance.