It’s not every day a new actor walks onto a set and immediately feels like part of a family—but that’s exactly what happened when Brandon Larracuente joined Chicago Fire as newcomer Sal Vasquez for Season 14.
And the reason? One unforgettable gesture from a Chicago Fire legend: David Eigenberg.
Before cameras even started rolling, Eigenberg—beloved for his role as Christopher Herrmann—invited Larracuente and others to a big cast dinner. But this wasn’t just any welcome meal. It was something much deeper.
“Before we shot anything, David and his wife set up a big cast dinner,” Larracuente shared with NBC Insider. “And what was really nice was—it wasn’t just the current cast. There were cast members from previous seasons too.”
It was a reunion. A gathering of the Chicago Fire family across seasons, filled with laughter, introductions, and heartfelt welcomes. It was a moment that said, once you’re part of Firehouse 51, you’re always family.
“I invited my wife, they all met with her… it just feels like a family,” Larracuente continued. “I was able to bond with them before stepping on set at all.”
For many fans, this behind-the-scenes story is a powerful reminder of what makes One Chicago so special. It’s not just about thrilling rescues or emotional drama—it’s about the deep bonds shared by the cast. And David Eigenberg, a pillar of the series since Day 1, continues to lead not only with talent but with heart.
“It’s always tough when you’re joining a show that has built a core… but they keep it light on set. They show up prepared. They respect the work. It’s a good time, every single day.”
Larracuente’s words—his gratitude, his warmth, his genuine admiration—hit home for long-time fans. Because it’s not just the characters who care about each other. It’s the people behind them.
💬 “They’ve all done their part equally in helping me adjust to the new experience of the show,” he added. “And that means everything.”
So when Chicago Fire Season 14 premieres on Wednesday, October 1 at 9/8c on NBC, it won’t just mark the start of a new chapter. It’ll be the continuation of something even bigger: a legacy of loyalty, love, and firehouse family that burns brighter with each season.
❤️🔥 This isn’t just a show. It’s a home.
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