The Chicago Fire season 13 finale, “It Had to End This Way,” lives up to its title with a mixture of emotional reunions, unresolved departures, and a major life twist that could redefine the heart of Firehouse 51. While the episode juggles multiple threads, each one circles back to the core of the series — the deep, messy, and fiercely loyal relationships that make 51 more than just a firehouse.

---

Unfinished Goodbyes: Ritter and Carver’s Exit That Wasn’t

Heading into the finale, fans already knew that Jake Lockett (Sam Carver) and Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter) were confirmed to leave the show. What no one expected was that their exits would be left hanging. Instead of grand send-offs or heartfelt speeches, the two remain firmly part of 51 — for now.

It’s an odd choice, especially since both characters still have storylines rich with potential. Ritter’s steady leadership and Carver’s redemption arc deserved more closure than a quiet fade-out. Carver’s sudden relapse and decision to apply for a transfer to Denver feel like narrative shortcuts rather than character-driven choices. His justification — that staying in Chicago threatens his sobriety — rings hollow for a man surrounded by teammates who’ve done nothing but support him.

That said, his rekindled romance with Violet adds emotional complexity to his arc, giving Chicago Fire season 14 plenty of ground to build on — if both characters actually stick around.

---

A New Beginning for Stellaride — and a New Set of Challenges

If there’s one emotional payoff the finale delivers, it’s the revelation that Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) is pregnant. For years, fans have watched her and Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) weather everything from infidelity rumors to near breakups, but this new chapter adds a fresh layer of hope — and tension.

While the pregnancy reveal comes out of nowhere, it’s still a satisfying way to move their story forward after the stalled adoption plotline. However, the show never properly addressed Kidd’s long-standing doubts about motherhood. Given her difficult childhood, her abrupt excitement feels like a rushed turnaround rather than genuine growth.

Still, Chicago Fire has always excelled when it lets its couples wrestle with real emotional conflict. Watching Stellaride navigate pregnancy — and the fear, joy, and old wounds that come with it — could make for some of the most honest storytelling yet in season 14.

---

Firehouse Bonds: Pascal’s Arrival and the Old Guard’s Strength

The finale also reinforces Chief Pascal’s role at Firehouse 51, though not without friction. Mouch (Christian Stolte) and Herrmann (David Eigenberg) remain the heart of the station — their friendship, humor, and unshakable loyalty keep the team grounded.

While Pascal’s presence adds new energy, his integration into the tight-knit group still feels forced. The chemistry that defines Firehouse 51 can’t be manufactured overnight, and for Pascal to truly fit in, he’ll need to earn his stripes in season 14.

---

The Emotional Core Remains Unbroken

Even as the show cycles through leadership changes, character exits, and new romances, Chicago Fire continues to thrive on emotional authenticity. Every major plot twist — from Carver’s inner demons to Stellaride’s life-changing news — is ultimately about connection, loss, and resilience.

The finale closes not with a fiery explosion, but with quiet tension — the kind that makes you hold your breath and wonder what’s next.

---

Final Thoughts

“It Had to End This Way” isn’t the most explosive Chicago Fire finale, but it’s one that lingers. It balances heartbreak with hope, endings with beginnings, and sets the stage for a turbulent season 14 where love, loyalty, and sacrifice will once again collide.

Firehouse 51 may be facing delayed heartbreak — but its heart still beats strong.