As Chicago Fire gears up for its fourteenth season, fans were bracing themselves for change. The Season 13 finale left major question marks hanging over Firehouse 51, and with multiple cast contracts up in the air, speculation ran wild. Would the series lose more of its beloved core? Was a new era approaching? But now, NBC has confirmed the return of three major names—and it’s the reassurance fans needed.

Taylor Kinney (Kelly Severide), Miranda Rae Mayo (Stella Kidd), and Dermot Mulroney (Chief Tom Pascal) have officially signed on for Season 14, bringing back not only the show’s emotional spine but also one of its most compelling new additions. With Kinney and Mayo back, the show gets to continue one of its richest storylines to date: Severide and Kidd preparing for parenthood. And under the increasingly central presence of Chief Pascal, Firehouse 51 will no doubt be facing a new chapter of leadership and challenges.

Severide’s journey has always anchored the series. From tragic losses and personal demons to fierce loyalty and quiet strength, his arc has consistently drawn viewers back. Now, with fatherhood on the horizon and a deepening bond with Kidd, his evolution is entering a whole new phase. Stella Kidd, meanwhile, continues to shine as one of the most dynamic characters on primetime—a firefighter, leader, and soon-to-be mother who never compromises who she is. The chemistry between Kidd and Severide isn’t just fan service—it’s the heartbeat of the show.

Then there’s Chief Pascal, a newer character who’s made a swift impact. Mulroney’s portrayal is layered, calculated, and at times mysterious. His leadership style deviates from what 51 has been used to, and his dynamic with veterans like Severide could be one of the defining tensions of the season.

Still, not all the news is comforting. Confirmed departures include Jake Lockett (Sam Carver) and Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter), both of whom had carved out important places in the ensemble. Ritter, especially, had grown into a fan favorite with his integrity and heart. Whether these characters will be given proper send-offs or disappear quietly remains to be seen, but their absence will be deeply felt.

Worse still is the uncertain fate of other beloved characters. David Eigenberg (Herrmann), Joe Minoso (Cruz), and Christian Stolte (Mouch)—three of the show’s original anchors—have not yet confirmed their return. Without them, the soul of Firehouse 51 feels vulnerable. They represent legacy, humor, and brotherhood, and losing even one would mark the end of an era.

Younger cast members like Hanako Greensmith (Violet) and Jocelyn Hudon (Lyla) also remain in limbo. Violet in particular has had some of the most emotionally resonant storylines in recent seasons, and her future could shape the show’s emotional center going forward.

For now, filming is expected to begin soon, and fans can expect more casting updates as fall approaches. What’s clear is that Chicago Fire is still burning—with Severide, Kidd, and Pascal keeping the flames alive.

The only question that remains: who will rise with them, and who might be left in the ashes?