Chicago Fire Fulfills A 14-Year Promise With Firehouse 51’s Evolution

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Be warned, this article contains spoilers for Chicago Fire season 14, episode 14, “Hit and Run.” The latest episode of Chicago Fire delivers on a storyline that’s been building for 14 years. Following the exciting 2026 One Chicago crossover event, the team at Firehouse 51 returns to tackling everyday emergencies and fighting fires. However, true to form for Chicago Fire, the episode also features intense drama. This time, the conflict affects the entire firehouse, rather than focusing on individual character struggles like we’ve seen recently.

Following the fallout from his controversial actions during the “Reckoning” storyline – where he interfered with an FBI investigation – Firehouse 51’s former chief has been removed from his position. The Chicago Fire Department decided he wasn’t suitable for the role, and he responded by saying he was ready to leave firefighting altogether. Having only served as Chief Boden’s replacement for a season and a half, his exit, while sad, allows the show to finally deliver on a storyline it’s been building for 14 years.

Kelly Severide Is Now Firehouse 51’s New Battalion Chief

Image via NBC

In “Hit and Run,” it seemed like Pascal was preparing Stella Kidd to take over his role. He doesn’t appear to be fighting his potential firing and isn’t looking to get his firefighting job back in Chicago. He briefly considers a fresh start in Phoenix, but ultimately decides Kelly Severide should be his replacement. He even gives Kelly a copy of the Captain Handbook, encouraging him to advance his career.

Taylor Kinney’s character, Severide, taking the lead at Firehouse 51 – even temporarily – feels like a natural step forward, hinting at the bright future the show suggested when it began in 2012. While Chicago Fire features a strong team, the network and producers have always highlighted Severide as a central figure. Seeing him become the leader is a rewarding moment, especially considering his long history with Chief Boden and the significant growth he’s experienced as one of the original cast members – it feels like he’s finally reaching his full potential.

Chief Boden originally intended for Severide to lead Firehouse 51 after he left. But after discussing how well Christopher Herrmann managed the team, Boden reconsidered. Ultimately, season 13 of Chicago Fire decided to bring in Pascal as the new leader instead.

Will Severide’s Stint As New Firehouse 51 Battalion Chief Last?

Everett

Currently, Severide is leading Firehouse 51. Given how long he’s been a dedicated member of the team, he’s well-equipped to handle the role. While there might be some challenges, he taking charge is the best outcome for the team following Pascal’s dismissal.

Now, the big question is how long Severide will remain captain at Firehouse 51. The sudden departure of Pascal is due to the show using rotating cast members to reduce expenses. Rather than simply writing off his absences, NBC and Wolf Entertainment created a storyline to explain a longer-term absence. Sources say Dermot Mulroney isn’t leaving the show permanently and may return towards the end of the 2025-2026 television season.

For now, Severide will need to take on more responsibility at Firehouse 51 while Pascal is away—and potentially even after Pascal returns, depending on what happens with his job. However, Chicago Fire may still plan to restore Severide to his former position soon.

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2026-03-12 15:58