Chicago Fire Finds Hope in Loss: Pascal’s Perfect Replacement Is Already Here
A Leadership Shift Is Brewing at Firehouse 51
Chicago Fire is no stranger to big transitions, and Season 14 has been one of the most unpredictable yet. With several characters exiting and new faces stepping in, Firehouse 51 has endured more change than ever before. Now, it looks like another shake-up may be coming — one that could redefine the firehouse’s future.
Rumors are growing that Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) may not survive the season in his current position. But if that happens, the series already has the perfect replacement — someone who’s earned the role through years of leadership, bravery, and heart: Kelly Severide.
Season 14’s Budget Crisis Puts Pascal on the Edge
The seeds of Pascal’s possible departure were planted early in Season 14. As the Chicago Fire Department faces sweeping budget cuts, rigs have been downsized, and paramedics like Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) and Lizzie Novak (Jocelyn Hudon) are stretched to their limits.
By Episode 3, Pascal receives an ominous visit from Annette Davis, the mayor’s chief of staff, who warns him that six battalion chiefs are about to be laid off. She reassures Pascal that his job is safe — but then immediately blurs the line between professional and personal by asking him out. When Pascal declines, her frosty reaction sparks fan theories that he may have just made a powerful enemy in City Hall.
In true Chicago Fire fashion, this small moment could ignite a much bigger blaze. If the CFD’s layoffs reach Firehouse 51, Pascal’s job could very well be next — opening the door for a familiar face to step up.
Why Severide Is the Only Logical Successor
If Chief Pascal is forced out, Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) is the clear and natural choice to lead Firehouse 51. He has the respect of the entire team, an unmatched investigative mind, and the kind of field experience that can’t be taught.
Over the years, Severide has evolved from a hot-headed lieutenant into a steady, battle-hardened leader. His mentorship of younger firefighters, his calm under pressure, and his willingness to make the hard calls have already made him the de facto backbone of 51.
More importantly, Pascal himself has helped groom Severide for this very moment. Their relationship began on rocky ground in Season 13, but they’ve since formed a mutual trust and understanding — particularly through their work on arson investigations. Severide stepping into Pascal’s role wouldn’t just make sense; it would feel like a full-circle payoff for his entire character arc.
And while the real CFD promotion process would take months, Chicago Fire could easily streamline it for storytelling purposes. Fans would finally see Severide in a leadership position worthy of his years of service — a move that could define the next phase of the series.
Herrmann’s Turn: The Squad 3 Solution
If Severide does rise to battalion chief, that leaves one major vacancy — the lieutenant’s chair on Squad 3. Enter Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg).
After relinquishing his lieutenant role on Engine 51, Herrmann has been quietly restless this season. His demotion to firefighter has left him searching for renewed purpose, and taking charge of Squad 3 could be the perfect fit.
Herrmann doesn’t want the bureaucracy or paperwork that comes with being a chief, but he thrives in hands-on leadership. Stepping into Severide’s role would satisfy his craving for command while keeping him close to the action. It’s a win-win for both men — Severide gets to guide Firehouse 51 from above, and Herrmann finds his spark again on the ground.
A New Era for Firehouse 51
If Chicago Fire truly follows through with this shake-up, it could mark the beginning of a bold new chapter.
Severide as chief. Herrmann back in command. Violet leading the next generation of paramedics.
It’s a lineup that honors the show’s legacy while paving the way for renewal.
Losing Chief Pascal would certainly sting — Mulroney brought charisma and quiet strength to the role — but Chicago Fire has always thrived on transformation. And with Severide ready to take the reins, Firehouse 51’s leadership might be stronger than ever.
Because at the end of the day, the spirit of Chicago Fire has never been about who leaves — it’s about who steps up next.