Another shakeup hits Firehouse 51 as Jack Damon departs — and more cast changes are ahead.

Michael Bradway, who played firefighter Jack Damon on Chicago Fire, will not return as a regular in Season 14. The actor has joined the cast of Every Summer After, an upcoming series on Prime Video. While Bradway is stepping away from the NBC drama for now, reports say his exit might not be permanent. He could return if schedules align.

Jack Damon’s Journey at Firehouse 51

Damon joined Chicago Fire in Season 11 and became more prominent in Season 12. In the Season 12 finale, he made a major revelation: he’s the half-brother of Lieutenant Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney). The two share the same father — the late Benny Severide (Treat Williams).

Damon had a rough introduction at Firehouse 51. After clashing with the team, he transferred to another station. There, he got into serious trouble. In Episode 15 of Season 12, Damon was trapped during a fire rescue. He later claimed that another firefighter left him behind. That accusation turned the crew against him. But Severide and his wife Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) brought Damon back to 51. He found a better fit the second time around, and his bond with Severide grew stronger.

Why Is Bradway Leaving Now?

Bradway’s departure ties into both real-world casting and in-universe budget cuts. Late in Season 13, an auditor warned the team about coming layoffs. “The CFD is going to be announcing big cuts soon,” the auditor said. “Probationary and older firefighters are going to be the first to go.”

The show’s producers are clearly setting the stage for change. According to TV Insider, showrunner Andrea Newman said, “There’s nobody safe in this shakeup.” She hinted that the chaos will push the team to its limits in Season 14. “Next season is going to be about how the s**t really hits the fan… and how our team can hold together as a family.”

Damon’s storyline may continue offscreen. He might be reassigned to another station, giving the show a reason for his absence. That setup would still allow him to return — maybe for a visit with Severide and Kidd after their baby is born.

More Departures Ahead

Bradway isn’t the only one leaving. Before the Season 13 finale, it was reported that Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter) and Jake Lockett (Sam Carver) would also exit as series regulars. Neither was written out on-screen, and Newman has said she hopes they can return in some way.

Meanwhile, Brandon Larracuente is joining the show as a new series regular. His arrival could fill the gap left by Damon and others.

What About Lizzy?

Some fans hoped for a romance between Damon and paramedic Lizzy Novak (Jocelyn Hudon). But that subplot never developed into anything serious. As a result, Bradway’s exit isn’t likely to affect her storyline.

Final Thoughts

Michael Bradway’s Jack Damon grew into a compelling character with family ties and emotional depth. While he won’t be around for the start of Season 14, the door remains open for a future return.

Will you miss Jack Damon at Firehouse 51? Do you think he’ll come back later in the season? Share your thoughts below.