After announcing his exit, Chicago Fire legacy star Daniel Kyri will return in Season 14

Chicago Fire, along with Chicago Med and Chicago PD are returning for their new seasons on October 1, 2025. A few weeks before Season 13’s finale, it was revealed that Daniel Kyri, who plays firefighter Darren Ritter, and Jake Lockett, who portrayed Sam Carver, would not be returning for Season 14. Both characters have become fan favorites, and thus, this sudden decision disappointed many fans. No official reasons have been given for their departures, but rumors suggest that it's due to budget cuts.

However, due to some changes, one of the actors previously announced to be leaving the show is going to return temporarily. Daniel Kyri is set to come back in Season 14 as Darren Ritter. After his abrupt and frustrating exit, Chicago Fire is giving Ritter the farewell his character truly deserves.

Chicago Fire brings Daniel Kyri back for closure

Chicago Fire follows firefighters, paramedics, and rescue team members stationed at the fictional Firehouse 51. The show portrays both the personal and professional lives of the first responders.

Daniel Kyri has been part of the series since Season 7, playing Darren Ritter. That’s why his sudden departure upset many fans. Besides, fans were even more upset at his brief screen presence in Season 13’s final episode, which left his story incomplete.

Since the show has decided to bring back Kyri temporarily, the writers will be giving his character the closure both Ritter and the fans deserve. NBC hasn’t confirmed how many episodes Kyri will star in, but it will be enough to complete his story before he leaves.

The reason for his departure still hasn’t been revealed. While there are rumors of budget cuts, nothing has been mentioned officially, which leaves plenty of room for speculation. Thus, there is plenty of room when it comes to exactly how the show will present Ritter’s absence after Kyri’s final appearance. The character might face death or be laid off as a part of the layoffs that were hinted at in Season 13.

While Daniel Kyri is returning for Season 14, Jake Lockett isn't. Lockett's character, Sam Carver, left the show at the end of Season 13. Carver's exit felt odd. He had a job he valued, close colleagues, and finally a relationship with Violet. A short return in Season 14 could have given him the closure fans wanted. But unlike Ritter, Carver won’t get that chance.

In his last episode, Carver and Violet said they loved each other and shared a kiss. Many believed that the sweet scene meant Violet would convince him to stay in Chicago. However, earlier in the episode, Carver mentioned considering a transfer to Denver to start fresh. It seems that's the storyline the creators are going with, and thus, Carver won't be at Firehouse 51 at the beginning of Season 14.

Chicago Fire Season 14 will be released on October 1 at 9 p.m. ET on NBC. On the very same day, Chicago Med Season 11 and Chicago PD Season 13 will premiere at 10 p.m. and 11 p.m., respectively.

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