Why Daniel Kyri’s Darren Ritter Left Chicago Fire After Seven Seasons A Heartfelt Farewell, a New Beginning, and an Emotional Goodbye to Firehouse 51
Ritter’s Journey Comes Full Circle
After seven powerful seasons, Chicago Fire fans said goodbye to one of Firehouse 51’s most beloved firefighters, Darren Ritter, played by Daniel Kyri. In the Season 13 premiere, Ritter’s story took a deeply emotional turn when he learned that his ex-boyfriend, Dwayne, had been shot in New York City. Without hesitation, Ritter packed his bags and left Chicago to be by his side.
When he returned in Season 14, the experience had changed him. The time away forced Ritter to confront what mattered most, both personally and professionally.
Why Ritter Decided to Leave Firehouse 51
Ritter’s decision to leave wasn’t about running away from firefighting—it was about running toward love and healing. After reconnecting with Dwayne and realizing how much he still cared for him, Ritter decided to take an extended furlough from the CFD to move to New York.
His conversation with Violet Mikami was especially touching. When she questioned his choice, Ritter smiled and said, “Aren’t you the one who told me to go?” For Ritter, the move wasn’t goodbye forever. It was a chance to rebuild his life and see where his heart truly belonged.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
In his final scenes, Ritter shared tender moments with Violet and Lizzie, who insisted on driving him to the airport. “We’ll see what happens,” he said, holding back tears as Violet reminded him, “New York is not that far away.”
It was the kind of quiet, emotional farewell that summed up Ritter perfectly—selfless, sincere, and full of heart.
Daniel Kyri’s Emotional Farewell to Fans
In August 2025, Kyri confirmed his exit from Chicago Fire in a moving Instagram post. “Bringing Darren Ritter to the screen has transformed and healed me in equal measure,” he wrote. “He is a man who embodies empathy, humility, compassion, and unwavering bravery… a gay Black firefighter who is proud, fierce, loyal, and whole—a possibility I never got to see onscreen in my childhood but desperately craved.”
Kyri ended his message with gratitude and grace: “I am so humbled and proud to have portrayed you. Thank you so much, Darren Ritter. And goodbye.”
What’s Next
Though Ritter’s departure marks the end of an era for Firehouse 51, it’s clear his legacy will live on. His courage, kindness, and groundbreaking representation left an indelible mark on Chicago Fire—and on viewers everywhere.