Just as he became family, firefighter Jack Damon vanished from Firehouse 51. Here’s why he’s not coming back—for now.

A Promising Start Cut Short

When Michael Bradway joined Chicago Fire in Season 12 as Jack Damon, fans quickly warmed to his character. Taking over on Truck 81 after the departure of firefighter Derrick Gibson, Damon brought quiet determination and fresh energy to the firehouse. And just when it seemed like he was here to stay, he disappeared.

As of Season 14, Jack Damon is officially gone—and viewers have been left asking: why?

Off-Screen Opportunity Ends On-Screen Future

The real reason behind Bradway’s exit? A major streaming opportunity.

Shortly before Chicago Fire began filming its fourteenth season, Bradway was cast as a series lead in Prime Video’s adaptation of the bestselling novel Every Summer After—a BookTok favorite destined for big streaming success. His new schedule clashed with Chicago Fire filming, making his return impossible for the time being.

Rather than write in an elaborate exit, Chicago Fire simply stated that Jack had been transferred to another firehouse, offering minimal explanation.

Jack Damon’s Exit Leaves Unfinished Business

What made Bradway’s departure sting even more was how seamlessly his character had fit into the One Chicago universe. In a major twist at the end of Season 12, Damon was revealed to be the half-brother of Kelly Severide, one of the series’ longest-running leads.

That bombshell hinted at a deeper storyline and emotional arcs ahead—now suddenly cut short.

Still, producers have left the door open for Damon’s return in the future. The character wasn’t killed off, and there’s hope that once Bradway wraps filming his new series, he could return to Chicago Fire for more.

What’s Next for Michael Bradway?

Bradway is set to play Charlie in Every Summer After, the older brother of Sam—who shares a romantic history with lead character Percy. The show is expected to follow the formula that made The Summer I Turned Pretty a runaway hit, positioning Bradway as a rising star in the romance-drama space.

Filming began in mid-2025, and while a release date hasn’t been confirmed, Every Summer After is expected to debut sometime in 2026.

Will Jack Damon ever return to Firehouse 51? Or is Prime Video about to make Michael Bradway a streaming superstar?