Chicago Fire Faces Multiple Cast Departures Including Ritter Early Season 14

Chicago Fire's 14th season marks significant cast changes with the departures of Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter), Jake Lockett (Sam Carver), and Michael Bradway (Jack Damon), largely driven by budget cuts. Kyri, despite being let go, returns briefly for a limited arc early in the season, culminating in a proper send-off for his character who moves to New York to be with his injured ex-boyfriend, Dwayne. The season premiere, "Kicking Down Doors," also deals with emotional storylines such as Kidd and Severide suffering a miscarriage and later being approached about adopting a teen in need. New firefighter Vasquez is introduced, bringing fresh dynamics to the team, while other characters adjust to new roles and absences. The show balances these transitions while maintaining its focus on emergencies and crises faced by first responders. This season sets up new narrative directions amidst significant cast turnover, aiming to keep the show engaging and authentic.