Get ready for a seismic shift at Firehouse 51! In news that will send shockwaves through the Chicago Fire fandom, showrunner Andrea Newman has definitively confirmed the return of a critical character for Season 14, proclaiming: “We’ll see him in Season 14, for sure.”

This stunning revelation defies recent speculation and budget cut fears that have plagued the One Chicago universe. While many expected significant cast culls and more goodbyes, Newman’s ironclad confirmation means at least one beloved, pivotal figure is staying put, against what some believed were insurmountable odds.

The identity of this returning character, whose future hung precariously in the balance, is now confirmed to be Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney). His precarious position was exacerbated by Chief Boden’s departure and ongoing budget pressures. However, in a twist that left many viewers reeling from the Season 13 finale, Pascal’s decision to remain at Firehouse 51 was heavily influenced by the unwavering support of the crew. Newman specifically cited Mouch’s powerful declaration of Firehouse 51 as “family” as the pivotal moment that swayed Pascal

This confirmation comes as a jaw-dropping counterpoint to the confirmed exits of other series regulars like Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter) and Jake Lockett (Sam Carver), fueling intense speculation: What dramatic new role will Pascal play? What high stakes await him amidst the “turnover” Newman previously teased? And how will his unexpected retention at the helm reshape the very fabric of Firehouse 51 as the series navigates a landscape of forced changes and deep uncertainty?

Fans are now on high alert, desperate for details on the storyline that will keep Pascal firmly embedded in the heart of the show’s next season, proving that even amidst chaos, some figures are simply too crucial to lose.