Chicago Fire fans have learned to expect emotional exits, surprise returns, and plenty of heartbreak — but season 14 may be bringing back the wrong firefighter. While one familiar face is confirmed to return later this season, it’s left many wondering why another fan-favorite was written off so abruptly.

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The Major Exits Rocking Season 14

Heading into season 14, Chicago Fire lost three key characters in quick succession.

• Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter)

• Jake Lockett (Sam Carver)

• Michael Bradway (Damon)

Kyri and Lockett’s exits were the result of network budget cuts, while Bradway departed due to scheduling conflicts after joining a new Amazon Prime Video series. By the time the new season premiered, both Carver and Damon were gone, leaving Firehouse 51 short-staffed and emotionally drained.

However, Ritter’s story isn’t quite over.

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Ritter Will Return to Chicago Fire Later in Season 14

In the season premiere, Ritter was seen heading to New York to visit his ex-boyfriend Dwayne, who was recovering from a gunshot wound. His decision to travel — and possibly stay — hinted at an impending exit from 51.

Showrunner Andrea Newman recently confirmed to TV Insider that Ritter will indeed leave in the early part of the season but is expected to return later on.

“He’s there at the beginning of the season, and we hope to see him back at some point later in the season,” Newman teased. “We’ll say our goodbyes, and then we’ll see people again. And he’s certainly very much still in the lives of all of us.”

So while Daniel Kyri’s comeback is confirmed, fans are divided — because if only one returning firefighter could step back into Firehouse 51, many believe it should’ve been Carver.

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Why Ritter’s Return Makes Sense

Ritter’s character has been part of Chicago Fire for several years, and giving him a proper send-off is the right move. He’s earned his farewell arc, especially after everything he’s contributed to the 51 family.

His exit storyline — centered on love, loyalty, and new beginnings — feels fitting. Bringing him back later allows the show to tie up loose ends gracefully and maintain continuity within the core cast.

Still, not everyone’s thrilled with that decision.

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Why Carver Deserved to Return Instead

While Ritter’s return feels earned, Carver’s absence feels rushed. After finally declaring his love for Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) in the season 13 finale, Carver shocked fans by transferring to Denver off-screen before season 14 began.

It was a confusing move that contradicted the emotional buildup between him and Violet. Their chemistry had been building for months, only for the writers to cut it off without closure.

Carver’s departure didn’t just feel sudden — it felt unfinished.

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The Door Is Still Open for Jake Lockett’s Return

The Chicago Fire writers left just enough ambiguity to make a Carver comeback possible. He could easily return to visit old friends, resolve things with Violet, or even lend a hand at Firehouse 51 during a crisis.

While nothing has been officially announced, the show’s history of bringing back familiar faces — from Casey to Brett — suggests that Jake Lockett could step back into the role when the timing is right.

Until then, fans are left frustrated that one of the most promising storylines from season 13 was abandoned without payoff.

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The Bottom Line

Ritter’s return will be a heartfelt moment for long-time viewers, but Carver’s unfinished story still lingers like smoke over 51. Both firefighters deserved closure — yet only one is getting it.

With Firehouse 51 facing emotional fallout and personal upheaval this season, Chicago Fire may still have time to course-correct. But for now, it’s hard to shake the feeling that the wrong man is coming home.