New Era at Firehouse 51: Dermot Mulroney Joins ‘Chicago Fire’ Season 13 as Chief Dom Pascal

The fire is burning brighter than ever as Chicago Fire prepares to ignite a brand-new chapter in its thirteenth season. With the departure of Wallace Boden—Firehouse 51’s steadfast and beloved chief—NBC’s hit drama is ushering in a bold new leadership dynamic. And now, we know who will be stepping into those big, fire-polished boots.

In a high-profile casting move reported by Deadline, veteran actor Dermot Mulroney is joining Chicago Fire as Dom Pascal, the new firehouse chief—and the man tasked with filling the gaping void left by Boden’s exit. Known for his commanding screen presence and versatile performances, Mulroney’s addition promises to shake up the core dynamics of the firehouse in ways both thrilling and unpredictable.

Meet Chief Dom Pascal: A Charmer with a Complex Past

According to early details, Dom Pascal is a far cry from his predecessor. While Boden (Eamonn Walker) was the embodiment of calm authority and institutional loyalty, Pascal is described as “cheerful” and “effective under pressure,” with a leadership style that diverges sharply from the long-standing ethos of Firehouse 51. He’s a man who can crack a joke in the middle of a crisis—and then, just as effortlessly, take command when the heat is on.

Pascal’s backstory also adds intriguing complexity to his character. A Chicago native, he began his career in the Windy City but has spent the past several years leading fire operations in Miami, a different battleground altogether. His return to Chicago signals not just a professional homecoming, but perhaps a personal reckoning as well. As it stands, Pascal is estranged from his wife—a detail that, while small, hints at a deeper emotional arc waiting to unfold.

In a series known for its layered characters and emotionally-charged storylines, Pascal’s arrival comes loaded with potential for both connection and conflict.

Replacing a Legend: Can Pascal Fill Boden’s Boots?

Dom Pascal isn’t just stepping into a new job—he’s stepping into a legacy. Wallace Boden wasn’t just a chief; he was the backbone of Firehouse 51, a mentor, a protector, and a moral compass. His leadership wasn’t defined by barking orders but by earning respect, listening intently, and standing up for his people—even when it put him at odds with the powers that be.

Fans will recall that Boden’s exit in the Season 12 finale wasn’t exactly voluntary. It was the result of political maneuvering and a dangerous call that shifted his priorities. After deciding to run for public office—a decision he initially resisted—Boden secured a victory that pulled him away from the station he loved, and the people who depended on him. In one of his final acts as chief, he advocated for Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) to take his place, a sign of his unwavering belief in homegrown leadership.

But the powers that be had other plans—and now, Dom Pascal is here.

Firehouse 51: A Culture at Risk?

The upcoming season won’t just be about Pascal finding his footing. It will be about whether Firehouse 51, a team known for its tight-knit bonds and unshakable routines, can adapt to a new leader who doesn’t share their institutional memory. For years, this squad has thrived because of its deep-rooted culture—one that was fiercely protected and nurtured under Boden’s watch.

Characters like Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney), Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo), and Herrmann have all grown under Boden’s influence. Whether they’ll be as receptive to Pascal’s new methods remains a looming question. Mulroney’s character may be “cheerful,” but that cheer might wear thin if it comes at the expense of trust, tradition, or team cohesion.

Change, as history has shown on Chicago Fire, rarely comes easy. And with Firehouse 51 having weathered years of political attacks, personal tragedies, and near-constant turnover, the stability Boden offered wasn’t just a luxury—it was a lifeline.

Drama Brewing: Conflict, Clashes, and Possible Alliances

What happens when a firehouse forged in one man’s image must now answer to another’s vision?

Season 13 is poised to explore this question in depth, and the possibilities are dramatic gold. Will Severide clash with Pascal over tactical decisions? Will Kidd, already navigating her own complex marriage and career aspirations, find herself caught in a new hierarchy she doesn’t fully trust?

And what of Herrmann, the man Boden wanted as his successor? Will he resent the appointment of an outsider? Or will he rise to the occasion as a stabilizing force within the firehouse?

Even the paramedic team may feel the ripple effects. With Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) still adjusting to her new partnership with Lyla Novak (Jocelyn Hudon), and the memory of Brett’s departure still fresh, any shake-up in leadership could re-open emotional wounds and create further tension.

Mulroney’s Casting: A Strategic and Star-Powered Move

Dermot Mulroney’s casting is more than just a narrative shift—it’s a strategic move by the Chicago Fire showrunners to inject fresh energy and star power into the series. Known for his work in both film (My Best Friend’s Wedding, The Family Stone) and television (Hanna, Shameless), Mulroney brings a gravitas and unpredictability that could make Chief Pascal one of the most talked-about additions to the One Chicago universe in years.

His presence will inevitably alter the emotional landscape of the show, forcing characters to adapt, evolve, and possibly even rebel. That’s fertile ground for the kind of high-stakes storytelling Chicago Fire has always excelled at.

What Lies Ahead in Season 13?

As Firehouse 51 enters a new era, the central theme of Season 13 seems clear: adaptation.

With Boden gone, Pascal in charge, and relationships in flux, every member of the team will be tested. Some will rise to the challenge. Others may falter. But one thing is certain—Chicago Fire is far from cooling down.

The introduction of Dom Pascal signals a bold creative risk, one that could reframe the show’s emotional core and push its characters into uncharted territory. Whether he becomes a beloved leader or a controversial figure remains to be seen—but either way, the sparks are guaranteed to fly.

Chicago Fire Season 13 premieres this fall on NBC, streaming next day on Peacock.

Would you like a follow-up feature focusing on how Pascal’s Miami experience might affect his leadership in Chicago, or a speculative piece on Season 13 character arcs?