For more than a decade, Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) has been the steady heart of Chicago Fire — equal parts comic relief, father figure, and stubborn survivor. But Season 13 put him through one of his toughest arcs yet, as he faced the daunting possibility of stepping into Chief Wallace Boden’s legendary shoes.
Boden’s Promotion Leaves Herrmann at a Crossroads
With Chief Boden (Eamonn Walker) moving up the CFD ranks in Season 12, Herrmann was encouraged to think about his own future at Firehouse 51. Boden made it clear he’d like to see Herrmann as Chief one day — but before he could even consider that, Herrmann had to tackle the Captain’s exam.
At first, Herrmann dragged his feet. Not only was he impressed with 51’s new leader, Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney), but the thought of filling Boden’s shoes left him overwhelmed.
Studying, Struggles… and Success
With a little encouragement from Pascal and longtime pal Randy “Mouch” McHolland (Christian Stolte), Herrmann found the courage to face the exam. Meanwhile, Mouch made his own bold move by sitting for the Lieutenant’s test.
Both men passed with flying colors — but that success created a new problem. Firehouse 51 only had three officer positions, already held by Herrmann, Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo), and Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney). With no room for Mouch to officially rise, the future looked complicated.
Herrmann Makes a Sacrifice
As Season 13 unfolded, Pascal took Herrmann under his wing, giving him glimpses of life as a Chief. Herrmann even shadowed Pascal during a dangerous building fire in a dramatic One Chicago crossover. But instead of gunning for the top, Herrmann came to terms with what he really wanted: to keep 51 strong and give his friend a chance.
In the finale, Herrmann stunned Mouch by announcing that he was stepping down from his Captain’s role to firefighter, clearing the way for Mouch to finally become a Lieutenant at Engine 51.
Mouch was emotional and confused, but Herrmann assured him he’d already had plenty of opportunities to lead. Now, it was Mouch’s turn. Herrmann was just grateful to remain with the family he loved, even if it meant a different title.
What’s Next for Herrmann?
By the end of Season 13, Herrmann had proven once again why he’s the soul of Firehouse 51 — selfless, loyal, and always putting others before himself. Whether or not he ever takes Boden’s place, Herrmann showed that leadership isn’t about rank; it’s about sacrifice.
Season 14 will no doubt explore how he adjusts to life back on the front line — and how Firehouse 51 adapts with Mouch finally wearing the Lieutenant’s badge.
