It’s official: Chicago Fire fans will have to wait until 2025 for new episodes. After an action-packed fall finale, the series is now on its annual winter break. While the wait might feel long, there’s good news ahead—new episodes are already on the horizon. Here’s what we know about when Chicago Fire will return and what to expect.
Why No Chicago Fire Tonight?
If you were hoping for a new episode of Chicago Fire on Wednesday, November 27, you’re in for some disappointment. The show has gone on its winter hiatus following the fall finale, which aired on November 20.
Historically, NBC has used the Wednesday before Thanksgiving as a break for its One Chicago lineup. In previous years, fall finales sometimes aired after Thanksgiving, but that’s not the case for 2024. Instead, Chicago Fire Season 13 has already wrapped up its fall run.
When Does Chicago Fire Return?
Mark your calendars! New episodes of Chicago Fire will resume on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 9/8c on NBC. This return date signals a return to NBC’s pre-pandemic scheduling norms, which often saw shows come back in early January.
In the meantime, fans might catch some reruns, but not tonight. NBC’s programming for this evening features a Thanksgiving-themed Saturday Night Live special—a holiday tradition for the network.
What’s Coming in the Winter Premiere?
While details remain under wraps, some hints about the winter premiere have emerged:
- Squad 3 in Action: A major fire will have Squad 3 rushing in to save lives. Expect high-stakes drama and intense action.
- Kelly Severide Returns: After being absent from the fall finale, Taylor Kinney is set to return as Kelly Severide. His reappearance is sure to bring fresh energy to the team.
- Stella Kidd Missing: While Severide is back, Miranda Rae Mayo’s Stella Kidd will reportedly sit out the episode. This aligns with recent cost-cutting measures by NBC, which have led to rotating absences among cast members.
- Cruz’s Intriguing Storyline: Cruz’s past is coming back to haunt him. During a church visit, he was approached by someone claiming to be the cousin of Flaco—a name linked to his Season 1 storyline involving his brother Leon and gang-related troubles. This callback to early seasons is bound to create some intense drama for Cruz in the episodes to come.
Why the Early Winter Break?
NBC’s decision to move the fall finale to the week before Thanksgiving marks a shift back to pre-pandemic scheduling practices. This adjustment allows the network to align its midseason premieres with the new year, giving fans a fresh slate of episodes in January.
Budget constraints have also influenced production this season, leading to a reduced presence for certain characters in specific episodes. These measures allow the show to maintain its high production quality while navigating rising costs.
How to Fill the Gap Until January
While waiting for the show’s return, fans can catch up on past episodes of Chicago Fire on Peacock. Whether revisiting early storylines, like Cruz’s connection to Flaco, or reliving recent drama, there’s plenty to keep you entertained during the hiatus.
Looking Ahead
The winter premiere promises to bring back the fiery drama and emotional depth fans love. With old storylines resurfacing and new challenges for Firehouse 51, Chicago Fire Season 13 is set to heat up as it heads into its second half.
