As the season 13 finale of Chicago Fire approaches, fans are on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting to see what will happen to Firehouse 51. With high stakes surrounding the chief position and a major investigation threatening to shake things up, the finale promises to be an explosive episode that will change the dynamics of the firehouse.
The Battle for Chief: Herrmann vs. Pascal
One of the biggest storylines of season 13 has been the ongoing struggle for the position of Firehouse 51’s chief. Although Boden (Eamonn Walker) initially wanted Herrmann (David Eigenberg) to take over the position, the introduction of Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) at the beginning of the season has created a tension that is now coming to a head.
Herrmann has been preparing for the chief’s test, which will determine if he is capable of leading the house. However, as the pressure mounts, Herrmann faces tough decisions about his future and what he truly wants. In a recent interview, Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman teased that the finale will address these questions and push Herrmann to a breaking point.
Newman revealed that there is “a lot hanging on the line at the end of Episode 21” for Herrmann, Pascal, and Mouch (Christian Stolte), with stakes that could alter the future of Firehouse 51. “The biggest thing for Herrmann is taking this test and what he really wants,” Newman shared. “The auditor has said, ‘You might have no time left. Beware.’” This sets up an intense situation where Herrmann must decide if he truly wants the role of chief, or if his future lies elsewhere.
The Impact of the Auditor’s Warning
Adding to the tension at Firehouse 51 is the looming threat of major cuts within the CFD. In Episode 20, the firefighters were informed by an auditor that layoffs and forced retirements were inevitable, particularly targeting probationary and older firefighters. Mouch’s future at the firehouse is uncertain, as he’s not one to back down from a challenge. But with these cuts on the horizon, it’s clear that the fate of many at 51 could change dramatically.
As the firefighters deal with the uncertainty of their positions, Herrmann’s leadership aspirations, and Mouch’s refusal to retire, the finale promises to explore these themes of change, loyalty, and what it truly means to be a leader.
The Future of Ritter and Carver
Another significant development in Chicago Fire’s season 13 finale revolves around the departure of two beloved characters: Ritter (Daniel Kyri) and Carver (Jake Lockett). Both actors will not return as series regulars for season 14, but Newman teased that fans may not have seen the last of them. “We love these actors, we love these characters, and we’d love to play with them more,” said Newman. While their exits are still uncertain, it’s clear that these characters will have a significant role to play in the finale and could return in a special capacity during the next season.
What’s Next for Firehouse 51?
As the season finale looms, fans are left wondering how the changes will affect Firehouse 51. With the chief position up for grabs, layoffs looming, and the departure of key characters, the stakes have never been higher. Will Herrmann finally get his chance to lead, or will Pascal’s role at the top be cemented? Will Mouch and the other long-time firefighters survive the impending cuts, or will Firehouse 51 see new faces taking over in the future?
The answers are on the horizon, and one thing is certain: the season 13 finale of Chicago Fire will be a game-changer. It promises to leave fans questioning what the future holds for Firehouse 51, with personal and professional stakes at an all-time high. As Herrmann and Pascal’s tensions come to a head, viewers will undoubtedly be glued to their screens, eager to see how the firefighters navigate the challenges ahead.
Stay tuned for the highly anticipated finale, as it promises to deliver both emotional drama and heart-pounding action, with far-reaching consequences that could shape the future of Firehouse 51.
