Stellaride’s Family Dreams Shattered

Chicago Fire season 14 wasted no time delivering heartbreak. The episode opened with the revelation that Kidd’s pregnancy test — teased at the end of season 13 — was a false positive. The crushing news devastated Stellaride fans, though doctors confirmed Kidd should have no issues conceiving in the future.

Putting adoption plans on hold, Kidd and Severide were left questioning what’s next. But in a late-episode twist, Terry reappeared, asking them to reconsider fostering a teenager. It seems Stellaride’s family journey isn’t over — just taking an unexpected turn.

Meet Sal Vasquez: A Mystery Recruit with a Troubled Past

Firehouse 51 welcomed a new recruit, Sal Vasquez, whose reckless driving on his first call immediately clashed with Kidd’s leadership. Despite her instincts warning her about his history of breaking protocol, Chief Pascal refused to remove him. Instead, he insisted Vasquez’s future now rests on Kidd’s ability to shape him.

But with Vasquez hiding an injury and clearly keeping secrets, his arrival raises more questions than answers.

Carver and Damon Depart, Ritter’s Exit Teased

The premiere quietly wrote out two characters. Carver has moved to Denver after parting ways with Violet, while Damon transferred to another firehouse, leaving doors open for future returns.

The episode also began setting up Ritter’s eventual exit. After rekindling his relationship with Dwayne in New York, Ritter flew out to be by his side after he was shot in the line of duty. With Dwayne recovering, it’s clear Ritter’s storyline is building toward a bittersweet but hopeful departure from 51.

Herrmann Steps Aside, Violet Faces Tougher Shifts

Elsewhere, Herrmann struggled to adjust after stepping down as lieutenant, finally sharing his office with Mouch as part of moving forward. Meanwhile, Violet and Novak braced for heavier workloads as EMTs, with city budget cuts forcing rotating rig reductions.

A Premiere Full of Change

From the crushing blow to Stellaride’s pregnancy hopes, to Ritter’s impending goodbye and the arrival of Vasquez, season 14 launched with emotional highs and lows. The firehouse may feel emptier with multiple exits, but the stage is set for fresh conflicts and dramatic new chapters at 51.