As the Chicago Fire season 14 premiere gets closer, the worse it looks for Firehouse 51’s fate in the coming episodes. The previous finale

ended on a happy note for many characters. Severide and Kidd found out that she was pregnant; Herrmann decided to step down so that Mouch could take over as Engine 51’s lieutenant; Violet and Carver kissed; and more.

 

 

However, it sounds like Firehouse 51’s bliss will be short-lived heading into Chicago Fire season 14. Based on all the unfortunate cast exits (or actors stepping down as series regulars) and a recent tease about the premiere, the Chicago Fire characters will soon have many obstacles thrown their way. The good news is that they have faced adversity before and overcame it.

 

 

During an interview with TV Insider, Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman discussed what’s to come in season 14. While she mostly spoke about the new cast member — Brandon Larracuente, who will star as Firehouse 51’s newest firefighter, Sal Vasquez — the showrunner also teased that the upcoming premiere will determine how the rest of the season plays out. Newman said:

 

 

Meanwhile, Daniel Kyri’s Darren Ritter will return briefly at the beginning of Chicago Fire season 14, but his time on the show will be short. The actor has already filmed his final episode. Jake Lockett, who portrays Sam Carver, is also stepping down as a series regular. So, it’s unclear what Carver’s role will look like in future episodes of the NBC procedural drama.

 

 

Given that Damon, Ritter, and Carver are saying goodbye to Firehouse 51, the showrunner’s “huge shake-up” tease is likely referring to character exits. Plus, Chicago Fire season 13 ended with the threat of layoffs looming over not only Firehouse 51, but the entire Chicago Fire Department. No decisions had been made by the time of the TV show’s season 13 finale, though