Could Jack Damon return to Chicago Fire? Possibilities explored

Another firefighter is clearing out his locker—and this one might sting a little more than expected. Chicago Fire fans were just beginning to warm up to Jack Damon, the younger half-brother of Kelly Severide, when news broke that actor Michael Bradway will not be returning for Chicago Fire Season 14. His exit makes him the third cast member to leave the series in recent months.

Bradway joined the long-running NBC drama in Season 12, instantly bringing a layered emotional dynamic to the Severide storyline. But with Season 14 fast approaching and fans still adjusting to the departures of Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett, Bradway’s sudden absence has left viewers wondering: why now?

NBC hasn’t offered a formal storyline explanation yet, but behind-the-scenes details suggest this isn’t your typical TV departure filled with mystery or tension. And, as of now, there has been no new information out about Jack Damon's return to Chicago Fire. Instead, it’s the kind of Hollywood move that comes down to a simple—if inconvenient truth: there just wasn’t enough time to do it all.

Will Jack Damon return to Chicago Fire?

What makes this departure different is that it doesn’t seem final, at least not emotionally. According to insiders, there’s no tension between Bradway and the Chicago Fire team. In fact, producers are reportedly open to bringing him back if his schedule clears up in the future. And narratively, Jack Damon’s story hasn’t hit a natural end—his character still holds plenty of potential for family drama, emotional growth, and station dynamics.

For now, though, Season 14 will move forward without one of its most promising additions. The show has a track record of bouncing back from cast shakeups, but Jack’s absence will be felt, especially by Severide fans hoping to see that sibling bond grow. Bradway may be off to warmer summers and dramatic romances, but in the world of Firehouse 51, no goodbye is ever truly permanent.

The career move that likely changed everything

Trending

So, why did Michael Bradway leave Chicago Fire? The most immediate and visible clue points to his newly announced role in Prime Video’s upcoming romantic drama Every Year After. Based on Carley Fortune’s bestselling novel, the project casts Bradway as the charming and emotionally wounded Charlie Florek—a role that’s a clear pivot from his action-heavy days at Firehouse 51.

The series is already in active production, and given the nature of streaming dramas—especially ones aiming to launch big—it’s likely Bradway had to choose. Between production schedules, marketing commitments, and the typical behind-the-scenes whirlwind of shooting a lead role, his dance card simply got too full. It’s not unusual for rising actors to step away from ensemble shows when a juicy lead comes calling, and that seems to be the case here.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback