Season 10 of Chicago Fire has been a whirlwind, with Matt Casey’s (Jesse Spencer) emotional departure leaving a void in Firehouse 51. While Casey’s exit was a major plotline, his absence created an opportunity for new dynamics in the firehouse. Enter Lieutenant Jason Pelham, played by Brett Dalton (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), as the interim captain.
Pelham’s arrival has been anything but smooth. His friction with fellow firefighter Blake Gallo (Alberto Rosende) and the mystery of his nomadic past—having “floated” between firehouses without ever settling—has raised questions about his future. While Pelham’s long-term role remains uncertain, fans have already taken to social media to share their mixed reactions to the newest addition to Firehouse 51.
Fans Divided Over Lieutenant Pelham
Joining a well-established cast can be a challenge for any actor, especially in a series as beloved as Chicago Fire. Fans hold the characters close to their hearts, making them naturally wary of newcomers stepping into pivotal roles. Pelham has faced a similar reception, with responses ranging from excitement to skepticism—and even outright dislike.
Fans Who Are Team Pelham
Many viewers have embraced Pelham’s no-nonsense demeanor and leadership style. Twitter user @blessedwsophia declared, “Lieutenant Pelham means business and I’m here for it!!!” Similarly, @delicatexmuse celebrated with, “PELHAM IS STICKING AROUND. WE LOVE TO SEE IT,” while @flutterpolitely admitted, “So far, I like Lieutenant Pelham.”
Others, like @lexiexbrettsey, added a lighter note: “God, Pelham is so hot.” Clearly, Pelham’s charisma hasn’t gone unnoticed by some fans.
Fans on the Fence
Not everyone was immediately sold on Pelham, but he’s slowly winning over a portion of the audience. @kimmiek2006 tweeted, “I didn’t like Pelham at first because of his attitude towards Gallo, but now, Pelham is kinda growing on me.”
Similarly, @blsd_mom noted, “Alright, Pelham kinda irked me with snapping at Gallo, but then he was trying to get thru [sic] and better, so alright, he ain’t so bad. But what is up with always being a floater??” This sentiment reflects the intrigue many fans feel about the mystery surrounding Pelham’s past and whether it will impact his future at Firehouse 51.
Pelham’s Critics
On the flip side, some fans haven’t warmed to the new lieutenant. Twitter user @5021stellaride said, “Okay, Pelham is REALLY getting on my nerves now,” while @crayolabrown posted, “Pelham rubbed me the wrong way.” Others, like @Chriscashman51, didn’t hold back, tweeting, “I think I hate LT Pelham already.”
For some fans, Pelham’s presence feels like a placeholder for someone else, with @lah9891 bluntly stating, “Pelham is very pretty and seems capable, but Stella [Kidd] should be the new lieutenant.”
What Does Pelham’s Future Hold?
Showrunner Derek Haas and the Chicago Fire writers have introduced Pelham with built-in tension. His clashes with Gallo and the mystery of his transient past suggest deeper layers to his story, leaving fans eager to see whether he’ll thrive or falter as captain.
As one Twitter user, @AmadahyZ, put it: “Pelham is looking like the perfect replacement for Casey. The tension will make things interesting and we’ll see what he’s made of.” For now, the drama surrounding Pelham’s character has succeeded in one crucial area: keeping fans talking.
Pelham: A Lightning Rod for Drama
Whether they love him, hate him, or are cautiously intrigued, fans of Chicago Fire are undoubtedly invested in Lieutenant Jason Pelham’s journey. As the season unfolds, viewers can expect more revelations about his character, keeping the firehouse dynamic as unpredictable as ever.
