8 Missing Characters in the 2025 One Chicago Crossover and Their Reasons

Warning! SPOILERS ahead for the 2025 One Chicago crossover, “In The Trenches.”

The highly anticipated **One Chicago** crossover event titled “In The Trenches, ”which aired on **January 29, 2025**, marked a return to form after five years. This gripping storyline is centered around a gas explosion at a federal building, prompting an urgent response from Firehouse 51 and the police department as investigations ensue regarding potential foul play. The situation escalates dramatically when Trudy Platt (played by Amy Morton) is shot during a suspect arrest, leading to a tense emergency surgery scene that raises the stakes for all involved.

This crossover uniquely weaves together characters from the fire, police, and medical teams, creating a layered narrative full of emotional depth and action. Key characters like Mouch, Severide, and Burgess express deep concern for their partners’ well-being throughout the unfolding chaos, particularly as Ruzek (John Patrick Flueger) and Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) find themselves trapped after a subway collapse. Meanwhile, Chicago Med’s Lenox (Sarah Ramos) faces off with Chicago PD’s Voight (Jason Beghe) over the treatment of a patient who could provide critical information.

Missing Characters from the Crossover Event

1. Joe Cruz (Joe Minoso)

Joe Cruz is a beloved character on **Chicago Fire**, making his absence in this crossover disappointing yet understandable. Following his serious injury during a robbery, Cruz faced suspension for his actions, which likely precluded him from participating in such a high-profile event.

2. Kylie Estevez (Katelynn Shennett)

Katelynn Shennett as Kylie Estevez in Chicago Fire

Kylie’s absence from the crossover lacks a clear explanation, especially given her irregular appearances in **Chicago Fire** Season 13. While her absence in Season 13, Episode 6 could be justified due to Engine 51’s non-involvement, her exclusion from such a crucial event remains puzzling.

3. Jack Damon (Michael Bradway)

Taylor Kinney as Kelly Severide and Michael Bradway as Jack Damon in Chicago Fire

Although Jack Damon made a welcome return to **Chicago Fire**, his exclusion from the crossover was a missed opportunity for character connection and emotional depth. Given his close relationship with Severide, a cameo could have provided crucial support during the tense hospital scenes; however, Damon was neither referenced nor appeared during this significant event.

4. Deputy Chief Charlie Reid (Shawn Hatosy)

Reid talking to Voight on a sidewalk in Chicago PD Season 12

Deputy Chief Reid’s character could have contributed valuable insight and involvement in the crossover, particularly in the conflict between Voight and Lenox. Unfortunately, the fast-paced nature of the episode may have limited the opportunity for him to fit into the narrative seamlessly.

5. Naomi Howard (Ashlei Sharpe Chestnut)

Although Naomi often assists Lenox in **Chicago Med**, her absence during the crossover is conspicuous and unexplained. One can assume she was engaged elsewhere, but including her could have strengthened the narrative’s medical perspective.

6. Sam Abrams (Brennan Brown)

Chicago Med Abrams standing across from Archer

Surprisingly, Dr. Sam Abrams did not make an appearance during the crossover, despite the chaotic events that typically necessitate a neurosurgical consult. His sharp wit could have helped balance the heavier moments of the episode.

7. Nina Chapman (Sarah Bues)

Nina Chapman sitting next to Voight in Chicago P. D.

Nina Chapman’s expertise as an Assistant State Attorney could have provided a refreshing angle during critical moments involving Voight. However, since she departed after episode 4 and won’t return until episode 15, her absence was both regrettable and impactful.

8. Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker)

Wallace Boden’s departure from **Chicago Fire** to take on a Deputy Chief role could provide a plausible reason for his absence during the gas explosion incident. However, considering the scale of the disaster, many fans expected him to take part in overseeing operations given his significant experience and leadership.

The absence of these characters from the One Chicago crossover has sparked discussions among fans, underlining the interconnected lives and stories that make this franchise compelling. As the universe continues to evolve, audiences remain eager for future reunions that delve into character dynamics and unresolved narratives.

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