Ritter’s Journey Reaches Its End

It’s the end of an era at Firehouse 51. Daniel Kyri, who has played firefighter Darren Ritter since Season 7, has officially wrapped his time on Chicago Fire. In a heartbreaking Instagram post shared in August 2025, Kyri confirmed he had filmed his last scene for the hit NBC drama.

The post included a gut-punch image: Ritter’s gear — helmet, jacket, and all — resting on a director’s chair. For loyal One Chicago fans, the symbolism was impossible to miss. It marked not only the end of Kyri’s time on set but also the final chapter for one of the show’s most beloved characters.

Kyri’s caption was equally emotional. He thanked his team, his colleagues, and most importantly, the character who defined his career for nearly a decade. “I am so humbled & proud to have portrayed you,” Kyri wrote. “You made history. Thank you so much, Darren Ritter. And goodbye.”

A Fan Favorite Who Made History

Ritter’s presence in Chicago Fire wasn’t just about action-packed rescues. From his very first appearance, Ritter became a fan favorite for his quiet courage, his loyalty to his crew, and his personal authenticity. The character broke ground by being openly gay, giving representation that had long been missing in network dramas centered around traditionally masculine professions.

For Kyri, who identifies as queer, bringing Ritter to life was more than just a job. In interviews, he has spoken about the responsibility of portraying a Black queer man in a space where those stories rarely get told. “I can’t say I had very many examples of Black queer people growing up,” Kyri reflected. “I spent a lot of my youth lost at sea, reconciling with my sexuality. To bring Ritter into homes each week and show his humanity has meant the world.”

That authenticity resonated deeply with viewers, especially fans in the LGBTQ+ community who rarely saw themselves represented in firefighter gear on primetime TV. Ritter was proof that courage takes many forms, both on the job and in life.

Season 14 Promises an Emotional Goodbye

Fans won’t have to wait long to see Ritter’s farewell. Kyri’s final scenes will air in the Chicago Fire Season 14 premiere on Wednesday, October 1, at 9/8c on NBC. The show is already teasing an emotional opener, and Ritter’s exit is expected to be one of the most talked-about storylines of the fall.

The official One Chicago Wednesday schedule is locked in:

• 8/7c: Chicago Med

• 9/8c: Chicago Fire

• 10/9c: Chicago P.D.

While NBC hasn’t revealed how Ritter’s departure will unfold, fans are bracing themselves for a tear-jerker. Whether Ritter leaves by choice or through tragedy remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the character’s final moments will carry the same heart and humanity that made him unforgettable.

The Legacy Ritter Leaves Behind

Ritter’s legacy is more than the fires he fought. He represented empathy, compassion, and strength that went beyond physical bravery. Kyri has often said that Ritter’s journey mirrored lessons he wished he’d had growing up: that being true to yourself matters, and that representation creates ripples far beyond the screen.

As fans prepare to say goodbye, there’s a bittersweet comfort in knowing Ritter made his mark. He became not just a firefighter in Chicago’s fictional 51 but a beacon of representation for viewers who saw themselves reflected in his courage.

Final Thoughts

Daniel Kyri’s departure is a loss that Chicago Fire fans will feel deeply. Ritter’s storylines may be ending, but his impact is undeniable. Kyri’s heartfelt tribute to his character serves as both a farewell and a reminder of how much Ritter meant to audiences.

When Season 14 begins, viewers will tune in not just for the flames and rescues, but for one last moment with a character who truly mattered. Ritter’s final salute promises to leave fans in tears — and grateful for the history he made.