In a significant shakeup for NBC's long-running drama Chicago Fire, cast members Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett will not return for a potential 14th season. This news comes amid ongoing budget cuts across Wolf Entertainment's NBC series, which includes other popular shows like Chicago PD, Chicago Med, Law & Order, and Law & Order: SVU.
Kyri, who has portrayed Firefighter Darren Ritter since Season 7, and Lockett, who plays Firefighter Sam Carver since Season 11, are both exiting as part of a broader effort to trim costs amid contract negotiations with veteran cast members. Sources indicate that this decision is not merely a reflection of the actors' choices, but a calculated move to reduce expenses as the series approaches renewal discussions.
Kyri joined Chicago Fire in 2018, initially appearing in a recurring role before being promoted to series regular in Season 9. His character has been a fan favorite, particularly noted for his storylines surrounding love and personal growth. Recently, the narrative focused on his relationship with Officer Dwayne Monroe, which ended when Darren expressed he wasn't ready to take the next step.
Lockett, who became a regular in Season 11, faced challenges with his character's storyline after a tumultuous romance with Violet, which led to a relapse into destructive behaviors. His journey back to sobriety has been a significant aspect of his role, as he has worked hard to redeem himself at the firehouse.
As the show continues to film its current season, there is hope that both characters will receive a proper send-off. Production is still ongoing, which means viewers may see resolutions to their storylines before the season wraps up.
These departures are part of a larger trend within the Dick Wolf franchise. Two years ago, many series regulars across the network saw their episode counts reduced from the traditional 22 to between 18 and 20 episodes per season as a cost-saving measure. This trend appears to be continuing as the network navigates financial pressures.
In a recent Instagram post, Kyri expressed gratitude to fans, writing, "Cheers! 🍻 If you’re reading this — Thank you for watching or supporting or playing or adding to my life in any way. Y’all know who you are. Thank you. I’m feeling grateful for you wonderful people🔥 💪🏾." His heartfelt message reflects the strong bond he has developed with the show's audience over the years.
While the future of Chicago Fire remains uncertain, the series has consistently been one of NBC's top-performing scripted shows, both in linear ratings and streaming. As discussions for renewal continue between NBC and Universal Television, further cast changes could be on the horizon.
Fans of the One Chicago franchise are bracing for the possibility of more exits, especially as contract negotiations unfold. The network's decision-making process will likely be influenced by the show's performance and the financial landscape of television production.
As viewers tune in to the latest episodes, they are reminded of the show's rich history and the characters that have come to define it. With the current season airing on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET/PT, audiences are encouraged to stay engaged and support their favorite firefighters as they navigate the challenges ahead.
The April 16 episode of Chicago Fire featured a return of Deputy Commissioner Boden, adding another layer of excitement to the ongoing narrative. As the show continues to build tension and drama, fans are left wondering how the departure of Kyri and Lockett will impact the dynamics of Firehouse 51 moving forward.
In summary, the exits of Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett from Chicago Fire mark a pivotal moment for the series as it prepares for potential renewal. With the ongoing budget cuts and contract negotiations, the future of the show hangs in the balance, leaving fans anxious about what lies ahead for their beloved characters.
