A Race Against Time

With just three episodes left in Chicago Fire Season 13, time is the enemy—not just for the firefighters of Firehouse 51, but for the writers themselves. The exits of Sam Carver and Darren Ritter aren’t just casting news; they’re seismic shifts in the emotional landscape of the series. And unfortunately, the clock is ticking far too quickly to give these characters the farewells they truly deserve.

The show has introduced compelling developments for both men—Carver reuniting with Violet, Ritter starting a quirky new living arrangement with Novak—but it’s hard to shake the sense that it’s all happening too late. There’s drama, humor, and emotional stakes… but only a handful of scenes left to wrap them up.

Emotional Investment With No Payoff?

Carver’s story, in particular, is a delicate one. He’s battled addiction, loss, and personal demons throughout his time at Firehouse 51. Just as he seems to be finding stability—possibly even love again with Violet—we’re bracing for a sudden goodbye. Will it be a tragic end in a fire? A quiet transfer? No matter the exit strategy, the emotional investment fans have made may never pay off if it’s rushed through in a montage or an off-screen explanation.

Ritter, on the other hand, has long been the quiet heart of the squad—loyal, compassionate, and often underused. Now that he’s finally being given personal growth, the idea of pulling the plug feels particularly cruel. Ritter moving in with Novak had the potential to explore his inner world in a meaningful way. Will we get to see any of that unfold before the credits roll?

Why It Feels Like a Disservice

TV shows have to evolve, sure. Cast members come and go, budgets shrink, and storylines shift. But fans deserve better than to see character arcs treated like loose ends. Carver and Ritter have earned more than a last-minute exit. They’ve earned closure.

Whether that comes in the form of a hero’s farewell or a heartfelt goodbye among friends, Chicago Fire has just three hours left to do it right. And if they don’t, it won’t just be the characters who suffer—it’ll be the legacy of the show’s emotional integrity.