Chicago Fire Shake-Up: Dermot Mulroney to Go on Hiatus in Season 14 — Is He Leaving for Good?
Chicago Fire fans were caught off guard by news that Dermot Mulroney is set to go on hiatus during Season 14, triggering immediate speculation about what this means for his future on the long-running NBC drama. Mulroney’s character, Chief Dom Pascal, made a strong and memorable impact after joining the series, so the idea of his temporary absence has raised a much bigger question: is this just a short break, or the beginning of a permanent exit?
Since his arrival, Pascal has brought a firm, authoritative presence to Firehouse 51, quickly shifting the power dynamics within the department. His leadership style introduced new tensions while also offering stability during critical moments, making him a character viewers expected to see play a long-term role. That’s why news of a hiatus feels less like a routine scheduling change and more like a potential turning point.
NBC has confirmed that Mulroney will be absent for part of Season 14 but has stopped short of calling it an exit. Still, longtime Chicago Fire viewers know that the line between a “temporary hiatus” and a full departure can be thin. The series has a history of using absences to quietly test audience reaction before committing to bigger cast changes, and fans are understandably cautious.
Adding to the uncertainty is the introduction of a new Battalion Chief during Mulroney’s time away. Leadership transitions on Chicago Fire rarely happen without consequences, and replacing Pascal—even temporarily—opens the door to shifts in authority, alliances, and future story direction. If the new dynamic clicks with viewers, it could complicate Pascal’s return.
At the same time, there are strong reasons to believe Mulroney’s absence may be purely storyline-driven. Short-term exits often allow writers to reset character arcs, introduce conflict, or prepare for a more dramatic return. Pascal’s leadership style left plenty of unresolved tension, making a comeback just as narratively valuable as a farewell.
Fan reaction has been mixed but intense. Some viewers fear the show is slowly phasing the character out, while others are hopeful that the hiatus will only deepen Pascal’s impact when he returns. Social media discussions reflect both concern and curiosity, with many asking whether this move signals a larger shake-up within Firehouse 51.
For now, the question remains unanswered. Until NBC clarifies Mulroney’s long-term status, fans will be watching closely for clues hidden in upcoming episodes. Whether this hiatus marks a brief pause or a final goodbye, one thing is certain: Chicago Fire is once again reminding viewers that change is never far from the firehouse.
