“Chicago Fire,” the long-running NBC procedural drama that has captivated audiences since its premiere in 2012, is no stranger to cast changes and dramatic shifts at Firehouse 51. As part of Dick Wolf’s expansive “One Chicago” franchise—which also includes “Chicago P.D.” and “Chicago Med”—the series has built a loyal fanbase through its intense firefighting action, emotional character arcs, and realistic portrayal of first responders. In the latest development shaking up Season 14, fans were surprised to learn that Dermot Mulroney, who plays Battalion Chief Dominick “Dom” Pascal, is taking a temporary break from the show. This hiatus comes after Mulroney joined the series in 2024 to fill the leadership void left by Eamonn Walker’s departure as Chief Wallace Boden.
The news, first reported by Deadline and confirmed across outlets like Entertainment Weekly, People, and others, has sparked discussions among viewers about what this means for Pascal’s character, the dynamics at Firehouse 51, and the show’s future. While not a permanent exit, Mulroney’s absence in the latter half of Season 14 introduces fresh tension and a new face to the ensemble. Let’s dive into the details of this storyline development, Mulroney’s impact on the series, and what fans can expect moving forward.
Who Is Dermot Mulroney and How Did He Join Chicago Fire?
Dermot Mulroney, a veteran actor with a career spanning decades, is best known for roles in films like “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” “Young Guns,” and more recently, Netflix’s “The Hunting Wives.” At 62, Mulroney brings gravitas and depth to every performance, making him a natural fit for the authoritative yet complex role of Battalion Chief.
Mulroney debuted on “Chicago Fire” at the start of Season 13 in 2024, stepping into the Battalion Chief position previously held by the beloved Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker). Boden’s exit as a series regular marked the end of an era—his fatherly guidance and steady leadership had defined Firehouse 51 for over a decade. Pascal’s arrival brought a different energy: stricter protocols, a more by-the-book approach, and personal baggage that slowly unfolded through the seasons.
Fans initially reacted with mixed feelings to the change. Some missed Boden’s warmth, while others appreciated how Pascal challenged the team to grow. Mulroney himself expressed gratitude for the role in interviews, describing the cast as a “family” during a December 2025 panel hosted by People. He praised the seamless chemistry and the long-tenured actors who had lived in their characters’ skins for years, noting it was unlike anything he’d experienced.
Why Is Dermot Mulroney Taking a Break from Chicago Fire?
According to reports from Deadline and confirmations in People and Entertainment Weekly, Mulroney’s hiatus is planned and temporary. He will appear in the upcoming episodes, including the major One Chicago crossover event airing March 4, 2026 (spanning “Chicago Fire,” “P.D.,” and “Med”), and his final episode before the break—Episode 14—is expected to air in February or early March 2026.
Mulroney will then step away for the remainder of Season 14, with a possible return toward the season finale. Scripts for the closing episodes are not yet finalized, so his comeback isn’t locked in, but sources indicate it’s under consideration. The exact personal or professional reasons for the break haven’t been publicly detailed—unlike some past cast leaves tied to specific matters—but it’s framed as a hiatus rather than a departure.
This isn’t the first time “Chicago Fire” has seen actors step back. Taylor Kinney (Kelly Severide) took a leave in Season 11 for personal reasons, and the show has navigated numerous exits through storylines involving promotions, relocations, or tragedies. Mulroney’s break appears designed to allow flexibility while keeping the door open for his return.
What Happens at Firehouse 51 During Mulroney’s Absence?
To cover Pascal’s absence, the show is introducing a new recurring character: Battalion Chief Hopkins, played by acclaimed actor Rob Morgan. Morgan, recognized for roles in “Mudbound,” “The Last Black Man in San Francisco,” “Stranger Things,” and recent projects like “The Rivals of Amziah King,” joins starting in Episode 16.
Hopkins is described as having a “long, haunted past” overseeing Chicago firehouses. He’s quick to assert authority, which could create friction with the established team—especially veterans like Severide (Taylor Kinney), Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo), and others who have grown accustomed to certain ways under previous chiefs. This setup promises compelling drama: Will Hopkins clash with the crew? How will his haunted history affect decisions during high-stakes calls? And could it lead to Pascal’s eventual return with renewed perspective?
The addition of Morgan brings fresh talent to the ensemble, which already includes standouts like David Eigenberg (Christopher Herrmann), Christian Stolte (Randall “Mouch” McHolland), Joe Miñoso (Joe Cruz), Hanako Greensmith (Violet Mikami), Jocelyn Hudon (Lizzie Novak), and Brandon Larracuente (Sal Vazquez).
The Broader Impact on Chicago Fire and the One Chicago Franchise
“Chicago Fire” has thrived for 14 seasons by balancing intense rescue sequences with personal stories—relationships, losses, and growth amid danger. Cast changes keep the narrative evolving, reflecting the unpredictable nature of first-responder life.
Mulroney’s hiatus arrives amid ongoing franchise developments. The “One Chicago” shows have faced budget adjustments and cast shifts in recent years, with exits like Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett after Season 13. Yet “Chicago Fire” remains a cornerstone, airing Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC, with next-day streaming on Peacock.
Fans can look forward to heightened drama in the back half of Season 14, as Hopkins shakes things up and the team faces new challenges. Whether Pascal returns reformed, conflicted, or not at all remains a key mystery that could carry into potential future seasons—renewal discussions for the franchise continue.
Conclusion
Dermot Mulroney’s temporary break from “Chicago Fire” marks another chapter in the show’s tradition of evolution and surprise. While fans will miss Pascal’s commanding presence in upcoming episodes, the introduction of Rob Morgan as Chief Hopkins ensures the drama at Firehouse 51 stays intense and unpredictable. As “Chicago Fire” continues to deliver heart-pounding action and emotional depth, this hiatus serves as a reminder of the series’ resilience and ability to adapt.
Stay tuned to NBC Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET for the latest twists. Whether Mulroney returns soon or the new chief leaves a lasting mark, “Chicago Fire” remains must-watch TV for procedural fans everywhere.
