Introduction: A Major Shake-Up at Firehouse 51
NBC’s Chicago Fire has long been a fan-favorite for its intense drama, heroic rescues, and deeply human characters. Over thirteen seasons, audiences have grown attached to the tight-knit team at Firehouse 51. But now, change may be coming. Reports suggest that Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett, who portray Darren Ritter and Sam Carver respectively, could be leaving the show after Season 13.
This news has sparked widespread fan speculation and emotional reactions. Both actors play essential roles on the team, and their departures would mark a significant shift in the series. As Season 13 continues to unfold, many are wondering what this could mean for the show’s future.
Daniel Kyri’s Role as Darren Ritter
Who Is Darren Ritter?
Darren Ritter is a firefighter who joined Firehouse 51 in Season 7 after transferring from another house where he struggled with a traumatic call. Since then, he has proven to be one of the most thoughtful and reliable members of the crew. Ritter is known for his empathy, courage, and steady presence during chaotic emergencies.
Over the years, his character has also become a symbol of representation on the show. Ritter is openly gay, and his storylines have helped expand the show’s inclusivity and emotional depth. His journey from hesitant rookie to dependable firefighter has been inspiring to many viewers.
Why Ritter’s Exit Would Matter
If Daniel Kyri exits the show, it would leave a noticeable gap in the ensemble. Ritter is often the emotional heart of Firehouse 51, providing calm and compassion amid the action. His friendships, especially with Blake Gallo and Violet Mikami, offer some of the show’s most genuine and heartfelt moments. Removing Ritter from the team would not only impact character dynamics but also shift the overall tone of the show.
Jake Lockett’s Sam Carver: From Outsider to Core Team Member
Who Is Sam Carver?
Sam Carver joined Chicago Fire in Season 11 as a confident but rough-around-the-edges firefighter. Initially, he clashed with Stella Kidd, who didn’t trust his reckless style. Over time, however, Carver began to evolve. Audiences saw more of his vulnerabilities, including struggles with his temper and past trauma. By Season 13, Carver had become a trusted member of Firehouse 51.
Jake Lockett’s portrayal brought both intensity and emotional depth to the character, turning Carver into a compelling figure with more to offer than first met the eye. His chemistry with Violet hinted at romantic potential, and his friendship with Ritter became one of the most grounded dynamics on the show.
Why Carver’s Exit Would Be a Big Loss
Losing Sam Carver would mean saying goodbye to one of the show’s most dynamic newer characters. His ongoing character development suggested there was more to explore—especially regarding his backstory and evolving relationships within the firehouse. Fans were invested in his growth and curious to see what direction his journey would take. A sudden departure would feel like a missed opportunity to complete that arc.
How the Show Might Handle Their Departures
Will Their Exits Be Permanent?
As of now, NBC or the show’s producers have not confirmed permanent exits. However, industry sources suggest that both actors may not return after Season 13. Whether that means their characters are killed off, transferred to other firehouses, or simply choose to leave for personal reasons remains unknown.
Chicago Fire has a history of writing out characters in respectful and sometimes emotional ways. It’s likely that both Ritter and Carver, if they do leave, will be given thoughtful exits that honor their time at Firehouse 51.
The Narrative Impact on Firehouse 51
Removing both characters would shake up team dynamics significantly. Ritter has long been the steady emotional presence, while Carver adds complexity and edge. Without them, the show would need to re-balance its cast and possibly introduce new characters to fill the void.
Depending on how the show chooses to handle it, these exits could open up space for fresh storylines. It could also give existing characters more room to grow and evolve in unexpected directions.
Fan Reactions and Community Buzz
The potential departure of Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett has created waves among the Chicago Fire fan community. On social media, many expressed their sadness and frustration, particularly since both characters had been gaining more development and screen time this season.
Some fans hoped that the rumors aren’t true or that the actors might return in guest appearances down the line. Others speculated that this could signal larger changes in the show’s creative direction. A few even noted that with Taylor Kinney (Kelly Severide) having taken breaks in the past, perhaps a rotating cast could be the show’s new normal.
Overall, the reaction has been a mix of disappointment, concern, and curiosity. What’s clear is that both Ritter and Carver have made a strong impact on viewers, and their presence will be missed if they leave.
What’s Next for Chicago Fire?
Despite the potential exits, Chicago Fire remains one of NBC’s strongest franchises. The show has weathered major cast departures before—Monica Raymund (Gabriela Dawson), Jesse Spencer (Matt Casey), and others have left at various points, yet the series has continued to thrive.
That said, losing both Ritter and Carver in one season would be a significant change. It could prompt the writers to introduce new recruits or refocus the narrative on different characters. It also opens the door for long-term shifts in the firehouse’s leadership and structure.
In some cases, big changes like this have revitalized the show’s energy and added unexpected depth. Fans can expect that the final episodes of Season 13 will build toward these transitions while still delivering the high-stakes action and emotional storytelling the show is known for.
Conclusion: End of an Era or a New Beginning?
If Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett do leave Chicago Fire after Season 13, it will be a major emotional moment for both fans and the show itself. Their characters have become more than just supporting roles—they represent growth, resilience, and the bonds that define Firehouse 51.
While change is always difficult, it can also lead to new opportunities. Whether Ritter and Carver are written out permanently or return in the future, their impact on the series is lasting.
As we await official confirmation and watch how their stories unfold, one thing is certain: fans will be tuning in closely, eager to see how Chicago Fire handles two of its most beloved characters possibly saying goodbye.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett officially leaving Chicago Fire?
There is strong speculation that both actors will exit after Season 13, though nothing has been officially confirmed by NBC or the show’s producers.
Why might they be leaving?
Actors leave shows for a variety of reasons, including creative opportunities, contract endings, or personal career goals. The specifics behind Kyri and Lockett’s potential exits have not been publicly disclosed.
Will their characters be killed off?
It’s not yet clear how their exits will be handled. Given the show’s history, it’s likely they will receive respectful and emotional sendoffs.
Will new characters replace them?
Possibly. The show may introduce new firefighters to maintain the team structure at Firehouse 51, or it might elevate existing secondary characters into more prominent roles.
Could they return in future seasons?
It’s always possible. Chicago Fire has brought back former characters for special episodes or arcs in the past.
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