The spring premiere of Chicago Fire threw Joe Cruz into one of the most intense and life-changing situations he’s faced. In Season 13, Episode 9, titled “A Favor,”

Cruz is forced to take part in a robbery to protect a long-buried secret from the show’s first season. The heist, however, goes horribly wrong, resulting in the death of Junior Polanco

and Cruz being severely injured. Fans are left wondering whether Cruz will finally confront the consequences of his past actions—specifically, abandoning Flaco to die years ago—o

r if he will find a way to leave his past behind and move forward. In a recent interview with CBR, actor Joe Minoso opened up about the return of Cruz’s storyline from Season 1, how it has shaped his character’s journey, and how both Cruz and Minoso have grown throughout the years.

Revisiting Cruz’s Origins

The storyline involving Flaco, which dates back to the very first season of Chicago Fire, has always been a defining part of Cruz’s character. Reflecting on the decision to bring this old arc back into play, Minoso praised the writers for their bravery in revisiting such a pivotal moment from so long ago. “It was a long time ago, and it’s really brave on behalf of the writers to revisit a storyline that we did so long ago,” he shared. “I was super excited about it. This was sort of Cruz’s origin story—when I really knew who the guy was. So it’s always been key in my mind.”

Minoso also vividly recalled filming the emotional scene where Cruz made the heart-wrenching choice to leave Flaco behind during a deadly fire. “I was such a baby actor at that point… For them to trust me was such a big thing. It just really stuck,” he explained, reflecting on the intensity and emotions that filled the set during those early days.

Cruz’s Evolution Over the Years

As the series progressed, Cruz transformed from a supporting character to a central figure in the show, with a more complex and evolving storyline. Minoso noted how Cruz’s growth mirrors his own life, both on and off-screen. “We have sort of parallel trajectories,” Minoso explained. “I got married on the show a couple of years after I actually got married [in real life]. My wife is a former Chicago Fire makeup artist. Like Cruz, I have so many more responsibilities now, compared to when I was just a broke actor working at bars to survive.”

Cruz’s personal life has expanded significantly. Now a father and an adoptive father, he has matured into a more responsible and noble figure, striving to be a role model for his family. As Cruz approaches his goal of becoming a lieutenant, his character embodies the themes of growth, redemption, and grappling with the shadows of the past.

For Minoso, playing Cruz has been a dream come true. “I’ve gotten to play so many different facets of this character—romantic, funny, dramatic. Some actors get stuck in one lane, but I’ve gotten to explore it all,” he shared, expressing his gratitude for the diversity of roles Cruz has allowed him to play.

The Return of Leon and the Upcoming Crossover

Cruz’s relationship with his brother, Leon (played by Jeff Lima), has always been an important part of his story. Minoso teased that fans will see more of Leon in Season 13, with their dynamic taking an intriguing turn. “Leon has leaned on Cruz for so long, and we might see that dynamic shift this time around,” he hinted.

Excitement is also building around the upcoming Chicago Fire crossover event with Chicago P.D. and Chicago Med. The highly anticipated three-hour special will feature a massive gas explosion that puts lives at risk throughout the city. Minoso described the production as “exhilarating chaos,” noting how the experience of filming such a large-scale event reminded him of the early days of the show, when long 14-hour workdays were the norm. “It’s always a blast—it’s like going to your crazy cousin’s house and playing with their toys,” he added.

Reflecting on the longevity of Chicago Fire, Minoso expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to be part of such a successful and enduring show. “You’re lucky when you get one year of anything. Thirteen seasons? I feel like I’m on borrowed time,” he said, showing gratitude for the show’s continued success and his character’s ongoing evolution.