As fans eagerly anticipate the return of “Chicago Fire” for its 14th season, the show is undergoing significant cast changes. Michael Bradway, known for his recurring role as Jack Damon, is the latest actor to announce his departure from the NBC drama. This news follows the exits of Jake Lockett, who portrayed Sam Carver, and Daniel Kyri, who played Darren Ritter. With these changes, the show will now see three cast members leaving as it gears up for its next chapter.
Bradway’s exit comes as he embarks on a new project, having been cast in the Prime Video series adaptation of Carley Fortune’s novel “Every Summer After,” which is set to begin production soon. This transition highlights the ongoing trend of cast members moving on to new opportunities, a reality that has become familiar for “One Chicago” fans who have watched characters come and go across the franchise.
NBC’s president of program planning, Jeff Bader, addressed the frequent cast changes during an interview with TVLine. He expressed that while fans may have concerns about the revolving door of actors, the franchise continues to thrive. “Cast comes in, cast goes out,” Bader stated. “Every year there are cast changes, and every year someone asks the same question about what’s going on within the One Chicago universe. But [those shows] just keep going on.” He emphasized that the franchise remains strong, with no plans to alter its successful Wednesday night lineup.
Before Bradway’s announcement, showrunner Andrea Newman hinted at significant changes ahead for the series. In May, she teased that viewers could expect “a lot of turnover” and “craziness” within the Chicago Fire Department (CFD). “There will be hellos, and there will be goodbyes,” she stated, indicating that the upcoming season would be filled with dramatic shifts and new dynamics among the characters.
This season’s shakeup aligns with the franchise’s history of frequent cast exits. Notable past departures include Sophia Bush, who left “Chicago P.D.” after season 4, and other stars who have moved on to pursue different projects. Despite the changes, the franchise has maintained its popularity, with each series—”Chicago Fire,” “Chicago Med,” and “Chicago P.D.”—continuing to resonate with audiences.
While many cast members have not publicly commented on their departures, Lockett has expressed his feelings about leaving the show. He shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, reflecting on his time portraying Sam Carver. “While I don’t exactly know what the future looks like, I do know that it won’t be exactly what it was and I am going to miss the hell out of that,” he wrote. “It’s been an honor bringing Sam to life, and to every one of you, thank you for the love and support over the past three years.”
As “Chicago Fire” prepares for its 14th season, fans can expect a fresh landscape filled with new faces and storylines. The show has always thrived on the strength of its ensemble cast, and while the departures may be bittersweet, they also pave the way for new talent and exciting narratives. The upcoming season promises to explore how the remaining characters navigate these changes and adapt to the evolving dynamics within Firehouse 51.
In conclusion, the departure of key cast members from “Chicago Fire” marks a significant turning point for the series. With the introduction of new characters and the continuation of beloved storylines, fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how the show evolves in the face of change. As always, the heart of “Chicago Fire” lies in its portrayal of camaraderie, resilience, and the challenges faced by first responders. Season 14 is set to bring both familiar faces and new beginnings, ensuring that the excitement continues for viewers across the nation.