Jake Lockett and Daniel Kyri Exit Series Amid Budget Cuts — Fans React with Heartbreak
Big changes are heating up Chicago Fire — and not in the way fans had hoped.
In a stunning development that’s left the One Chicago fandom reeling, series regulars Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett are officially exiting the NBC drama following the Season 13 finale. As reported by Deadline, the departures are part of broader budget-tightening measures affecting multiple Wolf Entertainment productions across NBC.
Kyri and Lockett’s exits mark a significant shift for Chicago Fire, which has already seen several cast shake-ups in recent years. With contract negotiations reportedly looming for other veteran stars, even more changes could be on the horizon.
🔥 Who’s Leaving Firehouse 51?
Daniel Kyri joined the show in Season 7 as firefighter Darren Ritter, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Ritter’s quiet confidence, emotional depth, and LGBTQ+ representation made him a standout in the ensemble. He was promoted to series regular in 2020 and most recently explored a romantic relationship with Officer Dwayne Monroe, before the pair amicably split.
Reflecting on his departure via Instagram Stories, Kyri wrote:
“I’ll miss this character, and it’s time to move on. Thank you to the cast, crew, & awesome fans.”
Jake Lockett came aboard in Season 11 as firefighter Sam Carver, a troubled but tenacious member of Truck 81. His intense chemistry with Violet Mikami and his ongoing struggle with alcoholism brought gritty realism and complexity to the role. Lockett also took to Instagram to share his bittersweet farewell:
“It’s been an honor bringing Sam to life… I’m going to miss the hell out of that.”
😢 Fans React: “This Hurts Big Time”
The news of Kyri and Lockett’s exits hit the Chicago Fire fandom like a five-alarm blaze. Social media erupted with passionate reactions as viewers processed the loss of two key players:
“Finding out mid-episode that Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett are leaving after Season 13 is actually devastating.”
“We are NOT happy at all. They already cut them from a few episodes this season.”
“NO!!! DANIEL AND JAKE ARE LEAVING THE SHOW!”
“Now it’s going to hurt big time come finale day…”
Many fans expressed frustration that both characters had been underutilized in recent episodes, and called for better balance when making budget decisions.
📉 Why Are They Leaving?
Sources say the exits are part of cost-saving strategies impacting multiple Wolf Entertainment shows, including Law & Order, SVU, and the entire One Chicago lineup. With network television evolving rapidly, budget constraints have become a deciding factor in casting decisions — even when it comes to beloved regulars.
According to insiders, more cast exits could follow as Chicago Fire heads into its 14th season, with key contract negotiations currently underway.
🔮 What’s Next for Season 14?
While plot details remain under wraps, Season 14 is expected to carry forward key threads from the Season 13 finale — including Severide’s risky move to help a teammate, Kidd’s ongoing family drama, and Herrmann’s potential promotion.
As for Ritter and Carver? It remains to be seen whether their departures will be addressed on-screen with proper closure or explained off-screen. Either way, fans are hoping for satisfying send-offs.
💬 Final Word
Losing Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett is no small blow to Chicago Fire. Both actors brought depth, diversity, and drama to the beloved series, and their characters will be sorely missed. As Firehouse 51 gears up for a new chapter, fans are bracing for even more change — and hoping the heart of the show stays intact.
What do you think of the exits? Should Ritter and Carver have stayed? Join the conversation online — Firehouse 51 still has more stories to tell.
