Two ‘Chicago Fire’ Favorites Will Not Be Returning for Season 14 Amid Cost-Cutting Rumors

Chicago Fire has been through a lot of cast changes while on air for a little over a decade. Although the series hasn’t officially been renewed for a fourteenth season, there has been optimism among its fans and cast that it will happen. If it does, the beloved drama will be without two fan-favorite characters: Darren Ritter and Sam Carver. Played by actors Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett, their reported departures have come amid reports that NBC are implementing cost-saving measures on the series.

According to Deadline, cost-cutting rumors have surrounded Wolf Entertainment’s NBC series amid a possible renewal. The production company is responsible for some of television’s most popular franchises, including Chicago, Law & Order, and FBI. To cut back on costs, two years ago, Chicago Fire saw a massive episode reduction in Season 12 with only 13 episodes, which included fewer episodes for longstanding cast members as well. Although fans have been enjoying the current long season, there’s a possibility that, if there’s a renewal, another episode reduction could be forthcoming.

It’s not completely known how much each episode of Chicago Fire costs to make, but it’s obviously expensive to produce. Deadline reported that both Kyri and Lockett’s departures are believed to be one of the ways the series aims to trim its budget. Sources told the publication that many of the veteran cast members’ contracts have expired, which means negotiations are near. Between contract and renewal talks, fans might need to prepare themselves for more of their favorite characters’ departures, not just on Chicago Fire, but for the television franchise in general.

On a good note, Darren Ritter and Sam Carver could see a proper farewell. Kyri joined the NBC procedural drama during season 7. His character, Ritter, recurred until he became a series regular in season 9. He went from being a firefighter candidate, searching to make a name for himself, to being one of the most respected on the show, with the latest seasons highlighting his love life. Meanwhile, Lockett’s Sam Carver became a recurring character in Seasons 11 and 12 and was recently promoted to main cast in Season 13. He worked hard to prove himself as a solid firefighter until a breakup reverted him back to his old destructive ways. He’s been working hard to regain trust, though.

‘Chicago Fire’ Episode Views Have Been Consistent

What does it take for a show to prevent cuts and departures? There’s no exact answer to that question that will relate to every show that’s currently on air or has been canceled. It’s kind of inevitable, and what makes matters worse is that consistent viewership doesn’t seem like it’s enough anymore. Chicago Fire remains one of NBC’s most popular series. Even with 13 seasons, viewers tune in to watch their favorite firefighters save lives amid their own personal challenges.

It follows the firefighters, rescue personnel, and paramedics of the Chicago Fire Department at the fictional Firehouse 51. Some of the scenes were filmed on-location in Chicago, Illinois, and have even featured notable city residents such as then-Mayor Rahm Emanuel in the pilot episode. Since its series premiere, Chicago Fire hasn’t seen an average of less than 7 million, holding onto its popularity despite some big changes.