The Chicago Fire series continues to deliver high-stakes drama, intense rescues, and emotional character arcs in its long-running run on NBC. In a surprising development that’s sending shockwaves through the fanbase, Chicago Fire makes major cast change midway through season 14, with Dermot Mulroney stepping back from his role as Battalion Chief Dom Pascal. This shift, announced recently, introduces a temporary hiatus for the actor and brings in a new face to lead Firehouse 51 during the latter half of the season.
This change arrives amid a season already marked by several cast transitions, keeping viewers on edge about the future of the beloved firefighters. Let’s dive into the details of this major update, what it means for the show, and how it fits into the evolving landscape of Chicago Fire season 14.
What Exactly Is Happening with the Cast Change?
According to reports from reliable sources like Deadline and TVLine, Dermot Mulroney will go on hiatus for part of Chicago Fire season 14. His character, Battalion Chief Dom Pascal—who stepped in as the station’s leader following Eamonn Walker’s exit as Chief Wallace Boden in earlier seasons—will be absent from several upcoming episodes. The storyline reportedly requires Pascal to step away temporarily, allowing the narrative to explore new dynamics at Firehouse 51 without permanently writing the character off.
To fill this leadership void, NBC has cast Rob Morgan in a recurring role as Battalion Chief Hopkins. Morgan, known for his compelling performances in shows like Stranger Things, The Wire, and Mudbound, brings a commanding presence to the role. Chief Hopkins is described as a no-nonsense, experienced leader who will temporarily take charge, potentially shaking up team relationships and decision-making processes during high-pressure calls.
This isn’t a full exit for Mulroney—his hiatus is framed as storyline-driven rather than a permanent departure. Fans can likely expect Pascal’s return later, though no exact timeline has been confirmed. The move allows the show to refresh leadership dynamics midway through the 2025-2026 broadcast season while keeping the door open for Mulroney’s comeback.
Why This Change Matters for Chicago Fire Season 14
Chicago Fire has always thrived on its ensemble cast, where personal lives intersect with dangerous firefighting missions. Leadership at Firehouse 51 has been a cornerstone since the pilot—first with Boden’s steady guidance, then Pascal’s more intense style. Introducing a new battalion chief midway through season 14 creates fresh tension:
- Team Dynamics Shift: Characters like Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney), Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo), and others have grown accustomed to Pascal’s approach. A new chief could challenge protocols, force confrontations, or inspire different loyalties.
- Storyline Opportunities: Pascal’s absence might tie into personal issues—perhaps family matters, health concerns, or department politics—adding emotional depth. Meanwhile, Hopkins’ arrival opens doors for new conflicts, mentorship moments, or even rivalries.
- Viewer Engagement: Mid-season shakeups keep long-time viewers invested. After multiple exits in recent seasons, this change maintains momentum without alienating the core audience.
Season 14 has already seen its share of cast evolution. Earlier announcements confirmed departures like Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter) and Jake Lockett (Sam Carver) due to budget adjustments and creative choices, with limited returns for some. New additions, such as Brandon Larracuente as a mysterious new firefighter on Truck 81, have helped fill gaps. Mulroney’s hiatus adds another layer, proving that Chicago Fire isn’t afraid to evolve even in its 14th year.
Background on Dermot Mulroney’s Role in Chicago Fire
Dermot Mulroney joined Chicago Fire in 2024 as Battalion Chief Dom Pascal, stepping into big shoes after Eamonn Walker’s long tenure as Boden. Pascal brought a different energy—more authoritative and sometimes abrasive—leading to compelling storylines involving team trust, personal redemption, and high-stakes decisions.
Mulroney’s casting was widely praised for his veteran acting chops from films like My Best Friend’s Wedding, Young Guns, and recent roles in Scream VI and The Wedding Date. His hiatus doesn’t diminish his impact; instead, it highlights the show’s confidence in storytelling flexibility.
Who Is Rob Morgan? The New Battalion Chief
Rob Morgan steps into Chicago Fire with an impressive resume. His breakout roles include:
- Sgt. Henderson in Stranger Things (seasons 2-4)
- Turk in The Wire
- Supporting turns in The Photograph, Just Mercy, and For Life
Morgan excels at portraying complex, authoritative figures with nuance and intensity—qualities perfect for a temporary battalion chief navigating a tight-knit firehouse. His recurring status suggests Hopkins could become a fan favorite or spark memorable arcs before Pascal potentially returns.
How Fans Are Reacting to the News
The announcement has sparked lively discussions across social media and fan forums. Many express excitement about Morgan’s casting, citing his talent for bringing gravitas. Others worry about losing Mulroney’s chemistry with the ensemble, even temporarily. Common sentiments include:
- Hope that Pascal’s exit ties into meaningful character growth.
- Curiosity about how Hopkins will interact with veterans like Severide and Kidd.
- Appreciation for the show’s willingness to innovate after 14 seasons.
This buzz underscores Chicago Fire‘s enduring appeal—fans remain deeply invested in Firehouse 51’s fate.
What’s Next for Chicago Fire Season 14?
With episodes continuing into 2026, expect heightened drama. Upcoming storylines may focus on:
- New rescue missions testing the team under Hopkins’ command.
- Personal fallout from Pascal’s absence.
- Crossovers with the One Chicago universe (Chicago Med, Chicago P.D.).
- Resolutions to ongoing arcs involving relationships, recoveries, and department challenges.
The series remains a staple on NBC, blending procedural action with heartfelt character moments. This mid-season cast adjustment ensures Chicago Fire stays fresh and unpredictable.
In conclusion, the major cast change in Chicago Fire season 14—with Dermot Mulroney on hiatus and Rob Morgan stepping in as Battalion Chief Hopkins—represents an exciting pivot for the long-running drama. It honors the show’s tradition of bold storytelling while introducing new talent and possibilities. Fans can look forward to seeing how this leadership transition unfolds, bringing more intensity, emotion, and heroism to Firehouse 51. Stay tuned to NBC for the latest episodes—Chicago Fire continues to burn bright.
