Chicago Fire Faces Major Cast Changes Ahead Of Season 14

In a major shakeup for the popular NBC drama Chicago Fire, two series regulars, Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett, will not return for Season 14. The news, reported by Deadline, comes amidst expectations of significant budget cuts as the show prepares for renewal.

Daniel Kyri, who portrays firefighter Darren Ritter, has been a part of the show since Season 7, while Jake Lockett joined in Season 11 as Sam Carver. Their departures are part of a broader trend in the television industry where networks are tightening their belts due to rising production costs and a shrinking audience share for broadcast dramas.

Kyri's character, Ritter, has evolved from a recurring guest star to a fan favorite, known for his loyalty and bravery. He has also provided comic relief and helped bridge the gap between the older and newer generations of characters on the show. Meanwhile, Lockett's Carver, who has faced personal demons including alcoholism, quickly won over viewers with his complex backstory and heart of gold.

As Chicago Fire continues to air its 13th season, fans are left wondering how the show will handle the exits of these beloved characters. The series, which airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET, has already seen a decline in screen time for both Kyri and Lockett this season, further fueling speculation about their futures.

In a recent episode that aired on April 16, 2025, titled "Port Mortem," the intensity ramped up as Chief Boden returned to the firehouse under dire circumstances. One of the firefighters from 51 was hospitalized after a disastrous house fire, leaving viewers on edge about who it could be. Speculation ran rampant among fans, with many guessing it could be Carver, who had just returned from a 30-day furlough, or other prominent characters like Severide or Kidd.

During this gripping episode, Boden interrogated Chief Pascal and his team, including Severide, Herrmann, and Kidd, to uncover the truth behind the incident. The episode highlighted the chaos of the firefight and the critical decisions made under pressure, culminating in the revelation that a seventh firefighter had been trapped inside the collapsing house.

Despite the harrowing circumstances, 51 managed to save four lives, showcasing the bravery and skill of the firefighters. Boden concluded that while everything that could go wrong did, the team operated at the highest level under his leadership. He expressed confidence in his team’s actions, stating, "I wouldn’t have done it any differently. Chief Pascal and his officers made all the right calls." This moment of validation was pivotal for the characters involved, especially as they face the aftermath of the incident.

Fans are eagerly awaiting the next episode, titled "Permanent Damage," set to air on April 23, 2025. This upcoming installment is expected to reveal the identity of the injured firefighter and possibly set the stage for the emotional farewells of Kyri and Lockett's characters.

The decision to cut costs and reduce the cast size is not unique to Chicago Fire. As streaming platforms continue to rise in popularity, traditional broadcast networks are feeling the pressure to minimize expenses. This has led to a trend of fewer episodes being produced, pay cuts for series regulars, and even the cancellation of some shows altogether.

As the One Chicago universe faces these changes, rumors suggest that more exits could be on the horizon. Although the show is expected to be renewed for Season 14, the landscape of the series may look very different as budget constraints take their toll.

Kyri and Lockett's exits mark a significant moment in the series, as both characters have played vital roles in the narrative. With Kyri's Ritter known for his resilience and Lockett's Carver having a compelling journey through personal struggles, their departures will undoubtedly leave a void in the hearts of fans.

As the season progresses, viewers will be on the lookout for how the writers choose to wrap up their stories. With the season finale approaching, there is hope that the writers will provide a fitting send-off for both characters, allowing fans to say goodbye in a meaningful way.

In the world of Chicago Fire, where every episode brings high stakes and emotional moments, the upcoming changes may introduce new dynamics and challenges for the remaining characters. As fans prepare for the next chapter, the legacy of Ritter and Carver will surely linger in the hearts of viewers long after they leave Firehouse 51.

With Season 13 still airing, fans can catch up on previous episodes streaming on Peacock, and they can look forward to what lies ahead for the Chicago Fire family. As the show continues to navigate the complexities of firefighting and personal struggles, the resilience of its characters remains a beacon of hope amid the flames.