The First Dominoes Have Fallen
The news that Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri) and Sam Carver (Jake Lockett) are leaving Chicago Fire after Season 13 has left fans stunned. These departures—reportedly triggered by network-wide budget reductions—mark one of the most dramatic turning points in the One Chicago universe. But according to both behind-the-scenes context and carefully planted story arcs, Ritter and Carver’s exits are only the beginning.

As the show heads toward its Season 13 finale, Chicago Fire appears to be setting the stage for an even larger cast overhaul. What started as a financial adjustment may now evolve into a creative reshaping of Firehouse 51 itself.

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The Money Problem Behind the Flames

After more than a decade on air, Chicago Fire has reached a point where long-term contracts and rising production costs are clashing with studio budget limits.

NBC’s One Chicago franchise—home to Fire, Med, and P.D.—is reportedly under intense cost pressure. The cuts have already claimed two younger stars, but the financial squeeze rarely stops there. Veteran cast members often face tough decisions when contracts expire:

• Reduced Episode Counts: Appearing in fewer episodes per season to offset costs.

• Salary Reductions: Accepting lower pay or stepping away entirely.

This strategy has already hit other shows in the Wolf Entertainment lineup. For Chicago Fire, it may mean saying goodbye to even more familiar faces before Season 14 begins.

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Narrative Hints: Who Might Leave Next?

Beyond financial clues, the show’s writers have quietly been building emotional “exit ramps” for several long-standing characters—proof that change is coming whether fans are ready or not.

1. Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg)

Herrmann’s recent storylines have centered on leadership and legacy. His decision to demote himself to make room for Mouch’s promotion feels like a resolution to his long-running internal struggle between ambition and heart. With his family stable and his bar, Molly’s, thriving, Herrmann’s arc could end with a graceful retirement rather than a dramatic send-off.

2. Randall “Mouch” McHolland (Christian Stolte)

Mouch’s promotion to Lieutenant of Engine 51 is a well-earned triumph—but it could also mark the beginning of his final chapter. Having survived multiple near-death experiences, his new position introduces new stress, and the desire for a quieter life with wife Trudy Platt (Chicago P.D.) looms large. Mouch stepping away at the peak of his career would be a fitting, emotional exit.

3. Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) and Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo)

The Season 13 finale introduced the most personal storyline yet: Kidd and Severide are expecting a baby. Their marriage—and now impending parenthood—raises immediate questions about how long they can both stay in active, dangerous service. A classic Chicago Fire dilemma looms: choose between family and duty.
One could easily transfer or retire, making way for new blood at Firehouse 51.

4. Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith)

With Ritter gone and Carver relocating to Denver, Violet’s circle has collapsed. Alone and heartbroken, she could soon follow Carver to Denver for a long-distance “happy ending.” It would mirror the emotional exits of past favorites like Brett (Kara Killmer), giving Violet closure while continuing Chicago Fire’s romantic legacy.

5. Blake Gallo (Alberto Rosende)

Though Gallo left during Season 12, the show’s decision not to bring him back for a proper farewell speaks volumes. In the current cost-cutting climate, expensive cameos are off the table, reinforcing the new reality: Chicago Fire is streamlining its roster for the long haul.

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The Emotional and Structural Fallout

Firehouse 51 has always thrived on its sense of community—every character, no matter how small, serves a purpose. But the current shake-up threatens that balance.

With Ritter and Carver gone, morale within the team—and among fans—is already fragile. The show’s decision to dismantle parts of its core cast signals a creative crossroads. By the time Season 14 begins, Chicago Fire may look and feel dramatically different from the show audiences have followed since 2012.

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The Bigger Picture: A Franchise in Transition

The One Chicago universe is evolving. Like Law & Order and FBI, the shared world is adjusting to tighter budgets and evolving audience expectations. Yet, even as it changes, Chicago Fire’s strength has always been its emotional core—the bonds between its firefighters, paramedics, and families.

As showrunner Andrea Newman and producer Dick Wolf navigate these changes, fans can expect a more intimate focus on character over spectacle. But one thing is certain: by the time the Season 13 finale fades to black, the firehouse doors may close on more than just Ritter and Carver.