Chicago Fire is now gearing up to release its season 14. Being a long-running series, the procedural drama has seen several entries and exits over the years. Ahead of the new season, another fan-favorite character’s time on the show seems to have come to an end.
In the Season 13 finale, Sam Carver, played by Jake Lockett, decided to leave Cal Fire and move to Denver. He informed his decision to Violet, revealing how he is looking for a fresh start after struggling with alcoholism.
This has left fans wondering whether Carver is leaving Chicago Fire ahead of Season 14. Unfortunately, the character is indeed saying goodbye to the show. In April 2025, it was announced that actor Jake Lockett would be exiting the series after being an integral part of the cast for three seasons.
Is Sam Carver leaving Chicago Fire?
Yes, Sam Carver is leaving Chicago Fire. The firefighter announced his decision to leave Firehouse 51 at the end of Season 13. Actor Jake Lockett joined the show as Carver in Season 11 and had a recurring role for two seasons. He was promoted to series regular in Season 13, which will now mark his final appearance as a main cast member.
Though Carver became the team's responsible member, he struggled with personal issues, including a strained family background and a history of alcoholism. He soon began a relationship with Violet Mikami, which gave him some stability. However, he began slipping back into unhealthy habits when the relationship ended.
After being sober for a while, he reconnected with one of his ex-girlfriends, who once again introduced him to partying and alcohol, leading him to a downward spiral. Eventually, Carver relapsed and had to seek help through rehab. By the end of Chicago Fire Season 13, he made the difficult choice to leave Firehouse 51 and transfer to the Denver Fire Department.
Why is Jake Lockett exiting Chicago Fire?
In April 2025, Deadline reported that Jake Lockett would not be reprising his role as Sam Carver in Chicago Fire Season 14, along with Daniel Kyri, who played Darren Ritter. Their exit was attributed to budget cuts, as the producers entered negotiations with NBC to renew the series.
Lockett later confirmed his exit from the series as he posted a video of his special moments from the show on social media and wrote:
“While I don’t exactly know what the future looks like, I do know that it won’t be exactly what it was and I am going to miss the hell out of that. So much pride in this journey. It’s been an honor bringing Sam to life and to every one of you, thank you for the love and support over the past three years.”
Lockett added:
“And most importantly, the people that I was on the ground with day and night. Thank you for the family you are and times you have been and will be there for me. If you’re not in one of these clips, there will be more to follow. So many cherished memories.”
Chicago Fire Season 14 will premiere on NBC on October 1, 2025.