Crossovers have always been a hallmark of Chicago Fire. Whether teaming up with Chicago P.D. or Chicago Med—its sibling shows in the One Chicago universe—or occasionally joining forces with the Law & Order franchise, Chicago Fire has consistently embraced interwoven storytelling. These episodes connect the dots between Chicago’s emergency responders and law enforcement in thrilling ways, offering fans a glimpse of a larger shared universe.
However, the frequency of these crossovers has diminished in recent seasons due to challenges like COVID-19 protocols and the aftermath of industry strikes. Despite that, crossovers remain an integral part of Chicago Fire’s identity. From memorable narratives that highlight teamwork across professions to less cohesive stories that leave characters disconnected, let’s break down the best and worst crossover episodes in the show’s history.
The Best Crossovers: Showcasing One Chicago’s Community
The most successful Chicago Fire crossover episodes emphasize the interconnectedness of the One Chicago universe, often featuring large-scale emergencies that require collaboration among firefighters, police officers, medical professionals, and even legal experts.
- “Infection” (2019): This gripping three-part crossover brings together the entire One Chicago universe to combat an outbreak of necrotizing fasciitis, or flesh-eating bacteria. The crisis begins with Chicago Med, escalates with Chicago Fire, and becomes a criminal investigation in Chicago P.D.. The high stakes and interdepartmental teamwork make for a thrilling and cohesive narrative.
- “Deathtrap”: A tragic crossover involving Chicago P.D. and the now-canceled Chicago Justice, this storyline begins with a devastating warehouse fire during a rave. The fire claims the life of P.D. character Alvin Olinsky’s daughter, Lexi, adding emotional weight to the investigation and subsequent trial. The seamless progression from firefighting to justice highlights the depth of the shared universe.
- “A Dark Day”: Widely regarded as one of Chicago Fire’s strongest episodes, this crossover with Chicago Med revolves around an explosion at Gaffney Medical Center. The firehouse crew is called in to rescue survivors, including their own members, Gabriella Dawson and Matt Casey. Meanwhile, Chicago P.D.’s Hank Voight investigates the bombing. This episode’s intensity and emotional stakes underline the profound impact of such emergencies on the city’s broader community.
The Worst Crossovers: Missed Opportunities for Collaboration
Not all crossover episodes hit the mark. The weaker ones fail to integrate the characters meaningfully into the shared narrative, isolating them in ways that diminish the story’s impact.
- “Off the Grid”: This episode serves as a departure arc for Chicago P.D. character Sean Roman but fails to effectively involve the Chicago Fire cast. Their participation feels peripheral, making the crossover feel disjointed and one-sided.
- “Some Make It, Some Don’t”: This storyline pits Firehouse 51 against the police department when Kelly Severide is accused of a hit-and-run. The episode leans heavily on the investigation, sidelining the firefighting drama that fans expect. Severide’s involvement feels forced, making his role seem arbitrary in the overall plot.
- “What I Saw”: While slightly better than other weaker episodes, this crossover still struggles with balance. It features Joe Cruz going undercover for Hank Voight to expose a firefighter moonlighting as a thief. The premise pits city officials against both fire and police departments, but the execution feels uneven, leaving the firehouse crew underutilized.
Why Crossovers Matter to Chicago Fire
At its best, Chicago Fire uses crossovers to expand its storytelling canvas, drawing on the strengths of its sister shows to craft complex and emotionally resonant narratives. Episodes like “Infection” and “A Dark Day” highlight the deep connections between Chicago’s first responders and how their lives intersect in times of crisis.
Even at its weakest, the show’s crossovers still provide a glimpse into the larger One Chicago universe, enriching the world fans have come to love. Whether they shine or stumble, these episodes contribute to the broader mosaic of Chicago Fire, reminding viewers of the interconnected nature of the city’s heroes.
