“New Leadership, Old Loyalty”: Dom Takes Command While Herrmann Faces His Toughest Crossroads Yet

Chicago Fire is no stranger to emotional shifts, but Season 13 delivered one of the biggest changes yet: the retirement of Wallace Boden, the beloved chief of Firehouse 51. With that vacancy came an emotional power struggle — one that set up Season 14 for serious drama.

Fans hoping to see Christopher Herrmann take over Boden’s role were met with a mix of hope and heartbreak. Played with grit and depth by David Eigenberg, Herrmann had the full trust of his team and even the support of Boden himself. But when it came to formal qualifications, Herrmann fell short — and that opened the door for a new face: Dom Pascal.

Portrayed by Dermot Mulroney, Pascal entered Season 13 with tension. The crew was skeptical. Herrmann was frustrated. And the audience? Divided. But slowly, Pascal proved he could lead. He gained respect. He built rapport. And now, as confirmed by NBC and Deadline, Mulroney has signed on to continue into Season 14. That all but confirms it: Dom Pascal is the new chief of Firehouse 51.

So, where does that leave Herrmann?

The Season 13 finale delivered a crushing twist. Herrmann, who had been prepping for the chief’s exam, made a selfless decision — one that derailed his career. In a quiet, noble move, he stepped down as lieutenant of Engine 51… so his longtime friend Mouch could finally live his dream.

Mouch — played by Christian Stolte — had always dreamed of becoming a lieutenant and retiring at Firehouse 51. To make that possible, Herrmann gave up his role without even telling him. It was a sacrifice rooted in loyalty, but the cost was steep: Herrmann lost his command role and returned to being a regular firefighter. And with that move, his chance to become chief took a serious blow.

Still, Chicago Fire never writes anyone off completely. Herrmann’s leadership, compassion, and deep-rooted history with the firehouse remain intact. If Dom Pascal ever steps down, takes another role, or makes a critical mistake, Herrmann could still rise — especially if he decides to retake the exam.

For now, the firehouse adjusts to Pascal’s leadership. But loyalties are split. Can Dom truly fill Boden’s shoes? Will Herrmann regret his sacrifice? Is there tension brewing beneath the surface?

Season 14 is set to test these dynamics like never before. While the official title belongs to Pascal, many in the firehouse — and fans at home — still see Herrmann as the heart of Firehouse 51.

And in Chicago, fires aren’t the only thing that reignite.