From guest role panic to permanent cast member — how Season 14 made Lizzie Novak a One Chicago favorite

A Dream Gig That Nearly Broke Her Nerves

Jocelyn Hudon may now be a fan favorite on Chicago Fire, but her journey to becoming series regular Lizzie Novak wasn’t as smooth as her on-screen confidence suggests. In a recent appearance on the One Chicago Podcast, hosted by Chicago P.D. producer Brian Luce, Hudon opened up about the anxiety, gratitude, and backstage excitement that made joining the long-running NBC hit her ultimate “unicorn job.”

“This is a dream,” Hudon shared. “There’s only going to be one of these jobs, and I’m going to stay here as long as they’ll have me.”

It’s a bold statement—but one that reflects the rare stability and creative energy Chicago Fire has given the rising star.

From Nervous Newcomer to Series Regular

Hudon joined the cast as paramedic Lizzie Novak during Season 12. At the time, she was a recurring guest star, hoping to stick around. Every take felt like a test.

“I was like, ‘Do not mess up,’” she said, laughing. “I was basically pooping myself for all of Season 12.”

That pressure wasn’t unfounded. With twelve full seasons under its belt, Chicago Fire had already cemented deep relationships among the cast. Jumping into such an established family was intimidating.

“You walk onto the set and everyone already knows each other,” she explained. “They’ve been working together for years. You just try to contribute without getting in the way.”

Still, her performance—and her on-set chemistry with stars like Hanako Greensmith (Violet)—made an impression. By Season 13, Hudon had earned her promotion to series regular.

Behind the Scenes of Season 14

Now in its 14th season, Chicago Fire continues to thrive, and Hudon is fully settled into the cast. On the podcast, she praised the warmth of her castmates and the passion that fuels every episode. She described the experience as not just a job, but a rare kind of career blessing.

Hudon also joked about the name of her co-star Hero Hunter, calling it “the most iconic name ever.” Her excitement for the role, the series, and the One Chicago universe was infectious throughout the conversation.

Mark Your Calendars

As Chicago Fire heads into its winter break, fans won’t have to wait long. The show returns Wednesday, January 7, 2026, resuming its 9/8c slot on NBC alongside the rest of the One Chicago lineup.