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Chicago Fire is saying goodbye to two beloved firefighters. Both Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett confirmed their departures after season 13. The exits mark major changes for NBC’s hit drama as budget cuts reshape Firehouse 51.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Daniel Kyri: Portrayed firefighter Darren Ritter for 7 years starting Season 7, exiting after season 13 finale in May 2025
- Jake Lockett: Played firefighter Sam Carver, confirmed departing after season 13 alongside Kyri in April 2025
- Reason: Both exits attributed to NBC budget-cutting measures across Wolf Entertainment productions
- Impact: Marks significant cast reduction for season 14 plus loss of two fan-favorite characters at Firehouse 51
Daniel Kyri Exits After Seven Years as Darren Ritter
Daniel Kyri, age 30, portrayed Fireman Darren Ritter on Chicago Fire from season 7 through season 13’s conclusion. Originally intended for just a few episodes, Ritter became a fan-favorite character, evolving into a core member of Engine Company 51. The actor announced his final scenes in August 2025, celebrating the role that defined his career breakthrough.
Kyri’s character showed remarkable growth over seven seasons, joining as a candidate and becoming an integral part of Firehouse 51’s family. In season 14, Darren Ritter departs for New York City to reunite with his love romantic interest. The exit provides both dramatic closure and allows the character a hopeful storyline rather than a tragic departure.
Who is leaving Chicago Fire: Daniel Kyri, Jack Lockett exit after season 13
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Jake Lockett’s ‘Sam Carver’ Role Ends After Season 13
Jake Lockett, 40, played mischievous yet honorable firefighter Sam Carver within Truck Company 81 at Firehouse 51. Originally a recurring role in seasons 11 and 12, Lockett was elevated to series regular status for season 13, gaining increased screen time and compelling storylines. His energetic, comedic presence balanced dramatic moments across multiple episodes.
Carver’s character faced personal challenges including sobriety struggles in season 14 before his exit. In “It Had to End This Way,” the show revealed Carver transfers to Denver Fire Department to make a fresh start and support his recovery journey. Lockett expressed pride about the character’s final arc, stating he would “miss the hell” out of working on the series.
Why Are They Leaving Chicago Fire After Season 13
| Factor | Details |
| Exit Announcement | April 16, 2025 via Deadline exclusive |
| Primary Reason | Budget-cutting measures by NBC and Wolf Entertainment |
| In-Show Exit | Ritter leaves for NYC, Carver transfers to Denver |
| Final Episodes | Both characters completed arcs in early season 14 |
Multiple credible sources including Deadline, People, and NBC confirmed that Kyri and Lockett’s departures were part of network cost-reduction strategies affecting Wolf Entertainment’s entire lineup. The cuts impacted not only Chicago Fire but also Chicago Med and Chicago PD. Executive producer Andrea Newman addressed Carver’s exit in May 2025, discussing the character’s meaningful sendoff.
“Chicago Fire changed my life. Bringing Darren Ritter to the screen has been an absolute honor and privilege.”
— Daniel Kyri, on his Chicago Fire role
What Happens to Firehouse 51 Without These Two
Engine Company 51 and Truck Company 81 face significant roster changes entering season 14. The departures of both Kyri and Lockett create new dynamics within the firehouse community. Their shared exit streamlines the cast while opening narrative opportunities for remaining firefighters to assume bigger roles.
The show has managed similar transitions before with departures of Jesse Spencer’s Casey and others. Executive leadership promises compelling storylines that honor both characters’ departures. Fan reactions ranged from emotional goodbye posts to understanding the business realities behind major cast changes in the competitive streaming and broadcast landscape.
Can Chicago Fire Maintain Its Success After These Major Cast Exits?
Chicago Fire has successfully navigated multiple cast changes since its 2012 premiere, retaining loyal viewership across 13 complete seasons. The show’s core cast including Taylor Kinney as Severide and Miranda Rae Mayo as Stella Kidd remain anchors for the franchise. Season 14 introduces new recurring and supporting characters to fill roster gaps and introduce fresh storylines.
With both characters exiting under planned, narrative circumstances rather than sudden departures, the show maintains creative control over their sendoffs. Fans invested in Kyri and Lockett’s performances can find some comfort in the completed character arcs. The budget cuts, while significant, reflect broader industry trends toward leaner productions and strategic cast management in competitive television markets.
Sources
- Deadline – Exclusive reporting on Daniel Kyri and Jake Lockett departures announced April 16, 2025
- NBC Insider – Official network coverage of Chicago Fire cast changes and character storylines for seasons 13-14
- People Magazine – Celebrity interviews and detailed reporting on Chicago Fire cast exits
