Chicago Fire is heading toward its season 14 fall finale, and while fans were already bracing for the absence of Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo), it looks like she may not be the only one missing from Firehouse 51.

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Kidd’s Temporary Exit Shakes Up the Team

In episode six, Kidd made the emotional decision to leave town for several weeks to help her husband’s mother settle into a rehab facility in Cleveland. The storyline was a heartfelt one, giving her a reason to step away while maintaining strong ties to the rest of the team.

It’s been confirmed that Kidd will miss at least a few episodes — including the fall finale airing November 12. Her absence means that fans won’t see Miranda Rae Mayo return to screens until Chicago Fire resumes in early 2026.

But just as viewers began to adjust to one fan-favorite stepping away, another potential absence has stirred concern.

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Herrmann Missing in Action — Again

Beloved veteran firefighter Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) could also be missing from the Chicago Fire fall finale.

Herrmann was notably absent from episode six with no on-screen explanation. While some fans assumed he’d simply return next week, promotional materials for the finale tell a different story.

NBC’s episode synopsis doesn’t mention Herrmann. He’s also nowhere to be seen in the teaser trailer or in the official stills released ahead of the episode — a worrying sign for fans hoping for his return.

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Is Herrmann Taking Time Away?

Herrmann’s absence may have an understandable explanation within the show’s universe. After the devastating fire that destroyed his home earlier in the season, the veteran lieutenant has been under immense emotional strain.

It’s possible the writers are using that trauma to explain his off-screen time, giving the character space to “take a break” while keeping his future open. In fact, most Chicago Fire regulars miss two to four episodes per season, so this could simply be Herrmann’s turn to step back temporarily.

Still, for long-time fans, two consecutive absences — especially during a fall finale — sting a little harder. Herrmann has long been one of Firehouse 51’s emotional anchors, balancing humor with heart in some of the show’s most moving storylines.

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What Fans Can Expect Next

While NBC hasn’t confirmed Herrmann’s status in the finale, producers have reassured viewers that David Eigenberg remains a series regular and has not departed the show.

That means fans can expect Herrmann to return once the series picks up again in early 2026. With Kidd also away for part of the season, the stage is set for Chicago Fire to explore new dynamics — and perhaps even revisit some simmering conflicts at the firehouse.

For now, though, the fall finale may feel a little emptier, as two of Chicago Fire’s most beloved characters sit out the final moments of 2025.