Please be advised that this article includes a reference to an attempted suicide.
Following Chief Wallace Boden’s departure last season, Chicago Fire has witnessed dynamic changes in its 13th season for the crew at Firehouse 51. The team is now navigating the challenges of working under new leadership: Chief Dom Pascal, portrayed by Dermot Mulroney, who arrives with a mixed reputation from Miami that raises concerns among the firefighters. Longstanding characters Randall “Mouch”McHolland and Christopher Herrmann are seeking to assert their roles within the firehouse while also confronting personal challenges. Meanwhile, Sam Carver faces hurdles in both his personal life and career after paramedic Violet Mikami chooses to end their relationship.
Additionally, emotional struggles arise for Firehouse 51’s paramedic, Lizzie Novak, who reveals her vulnerabilities through her work and the impact of her family history on her professional performance. Joe Cruz also faces a dark chapter from his past as an individual seeks retribution against him for a tragedy connected to a fire he was involved in years ago. This season of the One Chicago franchise is marked by characters striving to establish their identities after Boden’s exit and experiencing significant personal trials. Below are some critical storylines to recall as we anticipate the return of season 13 in 2025.
1 Cruz Is Haunted By An Old Case
Joe Cruz Has Been Relatively Quiet This Season Compared To Other Characters
In the current season of Chicago Fire, Joe Cruz has been more subdued compared to his fellow firefighters. Initially, he questions the complicated relationship between Kelly Severide and his half-brother Jack Damon. However, episode 8 concludes on a cliffhanger when Cruz finds himself under threat from an individual who blames him for the death of a gang leader during a fire back in season one.
This encounter is deeply personal for Cruz, as he grapples with the repercussions of his past actions related to a criminal family responsible for putting his brother in danger years ago. The significance of this storyline is expected to intensify in the latter half of season 13, particularly as it impacts Cruz’s family life and his obligations as a firefighter. The stakes are high, and Cruz’s ability to manage these new challenges could affect his performance and relationships at work.
2 Novak’s Tragic Past Has Started To Unravel
Novak Shows Her Vulnerability More This Season
Lizzie Novak, characterized by her outgoing nature, has been further exploring her emotional depth this season. The fall finale subtly hints at a complex and troubled past when she gazes at a family photo at the beginning of episode 8. Her emotional response after a life-threatening call, where she and Violet save a man nearing suicide, prompts her to ask, “Why did you do that?” This powerful moment underscores Novak’s emotional struggles and hints at a more profound backstory.
This evolving arc for Novak is transforming her character, revealing past traumas that may affect her role as a paramedic. The remainder of season 13 is anticipated to delve deeper into Novak’s relationship with her family, potentially offering closure to her story arc as she confronts her inner challenges.
3 Carver & Violet’s Relationship Has Become Significantly Complicated
Carver Is Uncertain After His Split with Violet
Following the breakup with Violet, Sam Carver’s attitude at the firehouse is noticeably affected, especially after he rekindles a relationship with Tori, his high school girlfriend. His tardiness to work frustrates Stella Kidd, and he becomes irritable whenever Tori questions his commitment to the team. After their split, Carver seems to regain composure, yet the lingering question of his feelings for Violet complicates his emotional landscape. Meanwhile, Violet has begun seeing Flynn, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
The latter part of season 13 is set to explore Carver’s character, as he contemplates finding balance between his work responsibilities and personal relationships. Despite his uncertainties, Carver is determined to demonstrate his unwavering dedication to firefighting, while the potential of reconnecting with Violet remains uncertain and depends on their mutual willingness to support each other.
4 Herrmann & Mouch Are Aspiring for Promotions
Firehouse 51 Veterans Eager to Take on Leadership Roles
Veteran firefighters Christopher Herrmann and Mouch are grappling with the absence of Chief Boden, whose departure left a profound impact on their camaraderie. The two are now questioning their futures and, to challenge themselves, Herrmann decides to pursue the captain’s examination while Mouch competes for the lieutenant position. This drive to advance their careers reflects their resilience and refusal to consider retirement.
Nevertheless, the potential ascension to captain and lieutenant positions leads to questions regarding their roles within Firehouse 51. If Herrmann advances, what will that mean for Mouch’s aspirations? The upcoming episodes of season 13 will explore the outcomes of these aspirations and the dynamics that evolve as they vie for higher status within the firehouse.
5 Severide & Pascal Develop a Surprising Work Rapport
Severide Is Starting to Warm Up to His New Captain
Inside Firehouse 51, the absence of Chief Boden weighs heavily on the crew, particularly on Kelly Severide and Stella, who have always looked up to his leadership. Upon the arrival of Dom Pascal, his stern demeanor led to initial resistance from the team. However, in recent episodes, Severide has started to accept Pascal as they collaborate on critical cases, including tackling a corrupt cop involved with ghost guns.
The development of their partnership highlights the similarities in their tough and intelligent approaches to firefighting and crime-solving. Their investigation not only strengthens their professional bond but also leads to newfound camaraderie when Severide shares a cigar with Pascal, reminiscent of past moments with Boden and Matt Casey after a successful operation. The evolving relationship between Severide and Pascal could pave the way for future collaborations if Herrmann ascends to the captaincy, opening new pathways for teamwork.
The 13th season of Chicago Fire is set to resume with episode 9 on January 8, 2025, on NBC.
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