Curious why Daniel Kyri’s Darren Ritter and Jake Lockett’s Sam Carver are leaving Chicago Fire after Season 13? With budget cuts looming and contract talks underway, the future of several longtime cast members, including these two fan favorites, seems uncertain. As production continues and renewal discussions heat up, questions swirl about what’s next for Firehouse 51.
Here’s what we know about Darren and Sam’s possible exits from the series.
When are Daniel Kyri’s Darren Ritter and Jake Lockett’s Sam Carver leaving Chicago Fire and why?
Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett will leave Chicago Fire after Season 13, Deadline reported, citing production sources. If NBC renews the series for Season 14, neither actor will return. Kyri spent seven seasons as firefighter Darren Ritter, while Lockett played firefighter Sam Carver for three.
Sources believe NBC’s Wolf Entertainment shows are cutting costs, prompting their exits. Deadline reports, “Kyri and Lockett’s departures are believed to be part of an effort to trim the budget of Chicago Fire,” which is currently in negotiations for renewal. This follows similar cost-saving measures implemented two years ago, when several long-running cast members across the Chicago and Law & Order franchises had their episode counts reduced.
Kyri was brought in Season 7 as a recurring character and moved to the main cast in Season 9. He portrayed Darren Ritter, who advanced from a firefighter candidate to a respected team member. In recent episodes, Ritter navigated a romantic relationship with Officer Dwayne Monroe, which ended when he chose not to move in with Monroe.
Jake Lockett joined Chicago Fire in Season 11 as Sam Carver, a firefighter with a complicated past. Over three seasons, Carver bonded with Stella Kidd and proved himself under pressure. Earlier in his arc, he clashed with some squad members but eventually earned their trust.
Filming for Season 13 is still underway. If both characters end up leaving, then the show might give them proper send-offs. NBC, Universal Television, and Wolf Entertainment have not commented on the casting changes. As contract talks continue for all five Wolf Entertainment series, more cast exits may follow.
