Fans of Chicago Fire may find themselves puzzled yet again as the beloved firefighting drama is on a break this week. The show, which returned alongside the rest of the One Chicago franchise on January 8, stirred up confusion when it aired without a promo for its next episode. Unlike Chicago Med and Chicago P.D., which teased upcoming storylines, Chicago Fire left viewers wondering about its schedule.
Adding to the uncertainty, there’s no new episode airing tonight, January 15. Initially, a new episode was planned, but NBC will instead air President Joe Biden’s farewell speech at 8 p.m. ET. Although the speech is only scheduled to last 15 minutes, it disrupts the One Chicago lineup, pushing all three shows to next week, January 22.
When Does Chicago Fire Return?
Fans can mark their calendars for Wednesday, January 22, when Chicago Fire will finally return with episode 10, titled “Chaos Theory.” NBC hasn’t provided a clear explanation for why a promo wasn’t shown on January 8, but it’s speculated that the decision may have been out of sensitivity to the devastating wildfires currently affecting Los Angeles. This mirrors CBS’s choice to delay the return of Fire Country, citing similar concerns about triggering viewers.
What to Expect in Episode 10
Though a promo hasn’t aired, there’s plenty to anticipate in the upcoming episode based on the synopsis and promo photos that have been released. Titled “Chaos Theory,” the episode promises to be one of the most pivotal moments of Season 13.
The official synopsis teases:
“The team responds to a crisis at a community center. Severide is forced to investigate one of his own squad members; Kidd helps a teacher going through a post-incident spin-out.”
The focus is set to be on Joe Cruz (played by Joe Minoso), who ended the previous episode in a dire and emotional state. Cruz was caught in a firefight during an attempted robbery, which left him injured with a gunshot wound to his arm. The last scene showed him sitting in his car, distraught and uncertain about his future.
Joe Cruz Under Investigation
In “Chaos Theory,” Cruz’s actions will come under scrutiny as Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) is tasked with investigating his squad member. Known for his sharp investigative skills and strong sense of duty, Severide will likely face a tough situation as he delves into Cruz’s involvement in the robbery. The tension surrounding Cruz’s fate will undoubtedly form the emotional core of the episode.
Meanwhile, Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) will finally make her return after being absent during the winter premiere. She will take on a storyline involving a teacher struggling to cope in the aftermath of a traumatic incident, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the more somber tones of Cruz’s storyline.
Why Episode 10 Could Be a Game-Changer
“Chaos Theory” is shaping up to be one of the most dramatic episodes of the season. Joe Cruz, a fan favorite, finds himself at a crossroads that could jeopardize his career and future at Firehouse 51. Whether Severide’s investigation will uncover the full truth or lead to redemption for Cruz remains to be seen.
The return of Stella Kidd is another highlight, giving fans an opportunity to see her in action after her unexplained absence in recent episodes. Together, the layered storylines promise a mix of suspense, drama, and heartfelt moments that Chicago Fire is known for.
For fans eager to dive back into the action, the wait won’t be long. Catch the new episode on Wednesday, January 22, and prepare for the intense twists and turns that lie ahead.
