‘Chicago Fire’: Dermot Mulroney to Go on Hiatus for Part of Season 14, Rob Morgan Cast as Battalion Chief
Change is coming to Chicago Fire in Season 14, and it’s already sparking conversation among fans. Dermot Mulroney, who joined the series as Chief Dom Pascal, is set to go on hiatus for part of the upcoming season, prompting a temporary shake-up in Firehouse leadership. To fill the gap, Chicago Fire has cast Rob Morgan in a key new role as a Battalion Chief, signaling a significant shift in dynamics at Firehouse 51.
Mulroney’s character made a strong impression after his introduction, bringing authority, intensity, and a no-nonsense approach that quickly altered the tone within the department. His partial absence raises immediate questions about how the firehouse will function without his steady, commanding presence—and whether his leadership style will leave a lasting mark even while he’s gone.
Enter Rob Morgan, whose casting adds both gravitas and intrigue. Known for his powerful, understated performances, Morgan steps in as a Battalion Chief during Mulroney’s hiatus, positioning his character as a figure of authority with the potential to challenge existing relationships and routines. His arrival is expected to create new tensions, particularly as Firehouse 51 adjusts to yet another leadership transition.
For longtime viewers, leadership changes are always a red flag for conflict, and Chicago Fire rarely wastes such opportunities. A new Battalion Chief often means new expectations, new rules, and renewed pressure on fan-favorite characters. Morgan’s character could serve as either a stabilizing force or a disruptive presence—or perhaps a mix of both.
NBC has not specified how long Mulroney’s hiatus will last, leaving room for speculation about whether his absence is purely temporary or part of a larger story arc. In the One Chicago universe, short-term exits often come with long-term consequences, and fans are already wondering what this means for Pascal’s future once he returns.
The casting move also reflects Chicago Fire’s ongoing strategy of refreshing its ensemble while maintaining continuity. By bringing in a respected actor like Rob Morgan, the series ensures that the leadership storyline remains compelling rather than feeling like a placeholder during Mulroney’s break.
As Season 14 unfolds, viewers can expect power shifts, clashing philosophies, and emotional fallout as Firehouse 51 adapts to change once again. Whether Rob Morgan’s Battalion Chief becomes a temporary authority or a lasting presence remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: Chicago Fire is setting the stage for another dramatic chapter.
