‘Chicago Fire’ Season 14 Sends Darren Ritter to New York — But Leaves the Door Open for His Return
A Heartfelt Farewell for Firehouse 51’s Darren Ritter
Chicago Fire delivered a deeply emotional goodbye in its October 8 episode, “Primary Search,” as Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri) officially departed Firehouse 51. The episode gave fans a moving, character-driven exit—one that tied up his ongoing romantic storyline while still leaving space for a potential comeback.
Since joining in season 7, Ritter has been a steady presence in the One Chicago universe: brave, loyal, and one of the few openly gay firefighters in the series. His exit is treated with tenderness and realism, ensuring his story ends on a hopeful note rather than tragedy.
Why Darren Ritter Leaves
In “Primary Search,” Ritter’s decision to leave Chicago comes after visiting his boyfriend Dwayne in New York, who was recently injured in a shooting. Moved by the experience and urged by Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) not to “repeat her mistakes,” Ritter decides to take a leap of faith for love.
“I’m flying back to New York right after shift,” Ritter says. “Already cleared it with Kidd and Pascal. It’s just an extended furlough.”
His phrasing—“not quitting”—is deliberate, making it clear that his departure is temporary. The subtle writing ensures that if Daniel Kyri’s schedule ever allows, Ritter’s return to 51 would feel natural and earned.
Violet and Ritter’s Emotional Goodbye
Violet struggles to accept her best friend’s decision, reminding him that Firehouse 51 has “lost firefighters recently.” Still, she respects his choice. As she and Lizzie Novak (Jocelyn Hudon) help him pack, Lizzie promises, “We’re coming to visit you,” to which Ritter smiles, “We’ll see what happens.”
It’s a bittersweet ending that reflects the deep friendship between Ritter and Violet—a relationship that’s quietly become one of Chicago Fire’s most grounded and genuine bonds.
Firehouse 51 Moves Forward
While Ritter flies east, Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) and Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) continue steering 51 through change. A new firefighter, Sal Vasquez (Brandon Larracuente), joins the house and immediately makes waves—earning both praise and tough love from Stella.
Elsewhere, Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) and Stella welcome 14-year-old Isaiah into their home as a temporary foster child, deepening the couple’s emotional arc. Meanwhile, Herrmann (David Eigenberg) and Mouch (Christian Stolte) juggle the usual chaos at Molly’s, proving that life at 51 never slows down.
A Thoughtful and Open-Ended Goodbye
Outside the show, Daniel Kyri marked his exit with a heartfelt Instagram post:
“Chicago Fire changed my life. To play Darren Ritter—a gay Black firefighter who is proud, fierce, loyal, and whole—has been an honor. You made history. Thank you so much, Darren Ritter. And goodbye.”
Inside the story, the door remains wide open. By calling his exit a “furlough,” Chicago Fire keeps Ritter’s legacy intact and makes a future cameo—or even a full-time return—completely possible.
What’s Next for Season 14
With Ritter gone and Vasquez stepping up, Chicago Fire shifts focus to rebuilding the team, highlighting Stella’s leadership, Violet’s emotional growth, and more Ambulance 61 cases like the Karl–Laura storyline. The season continues to balance personal stakes with high-intensity rescues—showcasing why Firehouse 51 remains the heart of the franchise.