Crucial Cast Members Exit from ‘Chicago Fire’ As Season 14 Looms
Michael Bradway, a part of the popular TV show ‘Chicago Fire’, will not be seen on the screen in the show’s upcoming 14th season. Earlier in 2025, the news broke out that Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett, two crucial cast members, will also bid adieu to the show. Moreover, Eamonn Walker, one of the original cast members, wrapped up his journey with the NBC procedural in 2024, upon the completion of season 12. As per trend, long-running shows witness cast departures, and Chicago Fire, despite its tremendous popularity, is not an exception.
Chicago Fire fans are bracing up to bid farewell to more of their favorite characters. The action-packed drama series from NBC is set to return with its 14th season this autumn. However, like every long-standing TV show, its cast has undergone significant changes over the years. The climax of season 12 saw the original cast member Eamonn Walker, who played the distinguished Chief Wallace Boden, moving on from the series regulars, and now it’s confirmed that three more actors won’t reprise their roles for the next season.
Eamonn Walker wasn’t the pioneer in marking a departure from the Firehouse 51. Jesse Spencer or ‘Matt Casey’ left the series during its 10th season run, however, returned for a short stint during season 11 and once again in season 12, punctuating the series with his character’s wedding with Sylvie Brett played by Kara Killmer, in what was to be her swansong appearance. Another imminent departure is that of Michael Bradway, who joined Chicago Fire during its 12th season to portray the enigmatic character Jack Damon, the step-brother of Kelly Severide, played by Taylor Kinney, and won’t be coming back for the 14th season.
Post his Chicago Fire journey, Bradway, however, has chartered his path to a new role. He will be entertaining audiences as ‘Charlie’ in a forthcoming Prime Video adaptation of the bestseller ‘Every Summer After’, penned by Carley Fortune. Despite production being underway, the officers have yet to announce a release date.
On the other hand, Jake Lockett, who joined the Chicago Fire team as Firefighter Sam Carver during season 11, won’t be a part of the narrative beyond season 13. Daniel Kyri, another significant departure, joined the Chicago Fire brigade as ‘Firefighter Darren Ritter’ in the show’s seventh season. His character originally started as a recurring guest and was soon promoted as a regular series member after two successful seasons. Upon his departure being made public, Kyri took it to his Instagram to acknowledge his exit and extend his gratitude towards his co-stars, crew, and the loyal fan base.
In line with a report from Deadline, the exit of cast members such as Kyri and Lockett is deemed an effort to streamline the show’s budget. An emotional moment for fans, Eamonn Walker concluded his role in the season 12 finale, an episode aptly named ‘Never Say Goodbye’, only to briefly return the following season.
Walker, when quizzed about his feelings after returning to the set, mentioned the warmth of the crew’s welcome. He admitted that he longed to be amongst them during his absence and was heartened to find his feelings reciprocated. He also reflected on how he failed to recognize the profound impact his co-actors had on him until his departure. He found his brief return to be a genuinely fulfilling experience.
Among other significant exits, Kara Killmer stands out. She first stepped into the Chicago Fire universe in 2014 portraying a beloved paramedic. Her memorable final act was seen in an episode that aired in February 2024, where her character married Matt Casey (played by Jesse Spencer) and then moved to Oregon to start a new life with him.