Why Chief Boden Didn’t Return In The 2025 One Chicago Crossover

Despite the danger brought by the tragedy in the 2025 One Chicago crossover, Chief Wallace Boden was still a no-show, why? Firehouse 51’s long-time leader and the very first character cast for Chicago Fire, Eammon Walker was the face of the NBC and Wolf Entertainment franchise for more than a decade. On the heels of several exits, however, Chicago Fire season 12 ended with the exit of Chief Boden, as he moved up the Chicago Fire Department and became its deputy fire commissioner. Still, because of his close ties with Firehouse 51, he could return to the show anytime.

In the 2025 One Chicago crossover, Firehouse 51, Gaffney Medical, and Intelligence come together to respond to a major tragedy downtown. Boden’s replacement, Chief Dom Pascal led his team for what they thought would be a regular fire call and rescue operation. When it became clear that it was far more dangerous and severe than initially perceived, the doctors and police officers started to trickle in to lend a helping hand. Ultimately, they were able to sort out the whole mess with no major losses for the good guys. Despite this, there was some disappointment not seeing Boden come back.

One Chicago’s 2025 Crossover Was The Perfect Time To Bring Back Chief Boden

Boden’s New Job Would Have Explained His Appearance

While Boden can visit Firehouse 51 anytime, the 2025 One Chicago crossover was actually the perfect opportunity to see Walker back for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the special’s inciting incident takes place not just in the busy part of the city, but also in a government building. As the new deputy fire commissioner, Boden would have at least needed to check out how things were, even if Firehouse 51 wasn’t directly involved. Secondly, it’s One Chicago’s crossover in 6 years. Walker showing up would have made it more special, and even nostalgic for fans.

Chief Boden’s Return Would Have Distracted From One Chicago Crossover’s Story Goal

The 2025 One Chicago Franchise Is For Its Future

Despite the aforementioned reasons, there’s 1 big reason why Boden didn’t show up in the 2025 One Chicago crossover, and it has to do with the franchise’s future. Aside from reviving a long-forgotten tradition for NBC and Wolf Entertainment’s premier drama franchise, the special is also supposed to re-establish the franchise as it moves forward to a new chapter. Much has been said about One Chicago losing multiple big characters and actors in the last several years. Boden’s presence will be a reminder of everyone who has left instead of focusing on its revamped ensemble.

This is particularly important for Chicago Fire, which suffered the most number of exits in 2024. As devastating as it was to lose Sylvie Brett and Blake Gallo, there’s no doubt that Boden left the biggest void. Dermot Mulroney has been doing a fine job as his replacement, but in order to convince people that he is worthy of being Firehouse 51’s new chief, Pascal’s skills and abilities should be on full display. It’s also important to get him acquainted with his peers in One Chicago, such as Hank Voight, which was exactly what the crossover did.