One Chicago Fire star has officially filmed their final episode of the hit drama, penning an emotional farewell to their character on social media.
We knew the day was coming, but we didn’t expect it would come so soon! After seven seasons playing Darren Ritter on Chicago Fire, Daniel Kyri has officially filmed his final episode of the show.
“Yesterday, I filmed my last scenes as Ritter,” Kyri revealed in a goodbye letter to the show and his character. “I’m still so amazed that my first-ever TV gig—a role that was originally meant for just three episodes—turned into seven incredible years (SEVEN?!?!! Whatttt???!) and spanned eight seasons of this iconic show! While I know I may never find another cast and crew as amazing as this one, I intend to carry what I’ve learned from you to every set in the future.”
Kyri went on to thank the team behind the show who helped create Ritter, including the writers who crafted his character’s journey over the course of the last seven seasons.
“To [Wolf Entertainment] & everyone involved in the creation of Darren Ritter, to every writer who recognized me & aligned with my intention & vision for the potential of this character, & to the fans who embraced & celebrated Ritter for every aspect of his humanity.”
He ended his farewell on an upbeat note, thanking those who have supported him and noting that he “can’t wait for you all to see what we cooked up this season!”
You can read his full statement below:
Why is Daniel Kyri leaving Chicago Fire?
When it was first announced that Kyri was returning for season 14, he made it clear that it was for a limited engagement. Still, fans did not expect it to be quite as limited as it’s ended up being, with Kyri filming for just a few short weeks. So why is he leaving the show?
Unfortunately, Daniel Kyri’s exit from Chicago Fire is the result of budget cuts to the long-running firefighter drama.
While we’ve seen many Chicago Fire actors leave the show over the years to pursue new roles or as a result of creative storytelling decisions made by the show’s writers, Kyri’s departure is connected to financial reasons. According to Deadline, which first reported that Kyri and Jake Lockett would both be exiting the show following season 13, the exits are “part of an effort to trim the budget.”
Kyri and Lockett’s contracts expired at the end of season 13 and were not extended, with NBC opting to part ways with the two actors. Lockett was written out in the season 13 finale, while Kyri will be written out early in season 14.
Following Deadline’s report, Kyri made it clear that the decision to exit the show was not his, but that there was no bad blood at all over the decision.
“I’ll miss this character, and it’s time to move on,” Kyri wrote on his Instagram Stories. “Thank you to the cast, crew, & the awesome fans,” he added.
