A New Face, A New Fire

As Chicago Fire heads into its 14th season, executive producer Andrea Newman promises big shifts within Firehouse 51 — and much of that change centers around new cast member Brandon Larracuente, who joins the NBC hit as Sal Vásquez.

Larracuente, known for his roles in Party of Five and On Call, steps into the world of One Chicago as a firefighter with a complicated past and a rebellious streak. According to Newman, Sal will test loyalties, push boundaries, and bring a fresh spark to the team dynamic.

“He’s kind of a rebel, he’s kind of a bad boy coming in,” Newman told TVLine. “He’s had a lot of problems with authority, personally and professionally.”

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Sparks Fly Between Vásquez and Stella Kidd

One of the biggest storylines early in the season will be Sal’s relationship with Lieutenant Stella Kidd, played by Miranda Rae Mayo. Newman describes their connection as “fun,” but also fiery and unpredictable.

“We’ll come to see that Stella might just be the person who can manage Vásquez and bring all of his best qualities to the front,” she teased. “She’ll try to keep him employed in the CFD and not kill him — and have him not kill her — in the meantime.”

It sounds like fans can expect tension, growth, and maybe even a bit of chaos as Kidd navigates how to rein in her new recruit.

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A Mystery Behind His Arrival

While Firehouse 51 has seen its fair share of transfers, Newman hints that Sal’s arrival won’t be straightforward. “There is a mystery as to why, when all these layoffs and policy changes are happening, this guy is being moved to what’s known as the best firehouse in the city,” she said.

“How did that happen? And why did that happen?” Those questions, Newman promises, will unfold across the first few episodes of Season 14.

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A Warm Welcome Behind the Scenes

Off-camera, Brandon Larracuente’s addition to the cast has been nothing short of heartwarming. Speaking to NBC Insider, he shared that veteran cast member David Eigenberg (Christopher Herrmann) and his wife hosted a welcoming dinner that included both current and former castmates.

“Everyone’s been great,” Larracuente said. “It definitely feels like a family. It’s always tough joining a show that’s been around for so long, but they made me feel right at home.”

The actor praised the team’s balance between fun and professionalism, adding, “They keep it light on set, but when it’s time to work, they show up prepared. I couldn’t ask for anything else.”

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A New Era for Firehouse 51

Brandon Larracuente’s casting follows the departures of fan favorites Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett, signaling the beginning of a new chapter for the Chicago Fire ensemble. With Vásquez set to challenge authority and stir things up, fans can expect emotional clashes, new friendships, and perhaps a few unexpected alliances.

As Newman put it, “He’s a catalyst for change.”