The Season 13 premiere of Chicago Fire introduced viewers to the firehouse’s new leader, Chief Dom Pascal, played by Dermot Mulroney. Pascal made an immediate impression

on Firehouse 51, setting the stage for significant changes within the team. During his first day on the job, Pascal addressed the crew, acknowledging the legacy of Deputy Commissioner Wallace Boden

while making it clear that he has his own leadership approach. “I have the utmost respect for D.C. Wallace Boden, and it’s truly an honor to be here, at his former seat,” he told them.

“But I’m not Chief Boden. I’m not trying to be. I have my own leadership style. I do things my own way, so you should all expect there’ll be some changes at Firehouse 51.”

Who Is Chief Dom Pascal?

Pascal is no stranger to firefighting in Chicago, having spent a decade in the city before relocating to Miami, where he served as a fire chief for ten years. Now, he has returned to lead Firehouse 51, bringing with him a fresh perspective and a hands-on approach to command.

The firefighters were initially uncertain about their new leader, but Pascal quickly proved his capabilities during a high-stakes emergency at a smoke shop. As butane tanks exploded around them, Pascal remained composed, directing his team efficiently and even charging into the danger zone himself to ensure civilian safety. His fearless leadership caught the attention of Novak, who remarked, “I think he’s missing the fear gene.”

Chief Pascal Shakes Things Up

Pascal wasted no time implementing changes at Firehouse 51. One of his first moves was requiring firefighters to deposit their phones into a bucket during mealtimes, aiming to foster stronger personal connections. The decision was met with resistance, with Joe Cruz voicing the team’s concerns.

“All due respect, Chief, but most of us have known each other for years,” Cruz stated.

Pascal, however, saw things differently. “That’s where the trouble starts,” he warned. “You stop asking questions, finding out new things. If your life depends on knowing the firefighter on your left and right on every call and what their next move is going to be, there’s no such thing as too familiar.”

In addition to the new meal rule, Pascal introduced mandatory debriefing meetings after each call, ensuring that lessons were learned and improvements were made in real-time.

Conflict on the Horizon?

One of Pascal’s most controversial decisions involved questioning the long-standing rule about immediate family members working together in the same firehouse. He pulled Stella Kidd, Christopher Herrmann, and Kelly Severide into his office to discuss it, highlighting that Severide and Kidd’s marriage technically violated department policy.

“Seems to me you both figured out a way to manage it, considering how long you’ve worked together,” Pascal noted.

Severide reassured him, “Yes, sir. We have it handled.”

“OK, just be aware that’s something I’ll be keeping an eye on,” Pascal cautioned.

With Pascal firmly establishing his authority, it’s clear that Firehouse 51 will face new challenges under his leadership. As the season unfolds, it remains to be seen how his changes will impact the team’s dynamic and whether his hands-on approach will be embraced or resisted by the crew.