Eamonn Walker is officially returning to Chicago Fire as First Deputy Commissioner Wallace Boden for a special one-night appearance. The Firehouse 51 leader has been a core part of the NBC procedural since its debut in 2012, but Walker left Chicago Fire at the end of season 12 when Boden accepted a promotion to Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Fire Department. His return promises an emotional and high-stakes episode as he steps back into familiar territory to lead a crucial mission.

Now, NBC has shared the details of Boden’s comeback episode. Chicago Fire season 13, episode 18, titled “Post-Mortem,” is set to air on Wednesday, April 16, at 9/8c on NBC. The upcoming episode will see Boden tasked by Commissioner Grissom to conduct a post-incident analysis following a devastating house fire that collapsed with a firefighter trapped inside. Gary Cole previously played Grissom, but it is not clear if he will appear in the upcoming episode. Showrunner Andrea Newman said in a statement:

We’re so excited to have our beloved Chief Boden back, and the episode, titled “Post-Mortem,” is a thrill ride unlike any we’ve done before. Told with flashbacks and unique POVs, Chief Boden leads our team on a search to discover the how, who, and why of a fierce firefight that ended in disaster.

What Boden’s Return To Chicago Fire Means
Firehouse 51 Still Feels His Absence

The NBC series hasn’t been the same since Chief Wallace Boden departed Firehouse 51 in Chicago Fire season 12. As a leader, mentor, and father figure, Boden was the heart of Firehouse 51. He was a guiding force for the team, offering wisdom and support to every single member during their toughest moments. With Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) now serving as the new Chief of 51 in season 13, the firehouse has struggled to adjust. Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) and Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) have particularly felt the weight of his absence.

Boden’s return could also play a critical role in what’s ahead. The trailer for Chicago Fire’s next episode teases multiple dangers, including a shot of Damon Severide (Michael Bradway) calling, “Mayday! Mayday! I’m trapped,” while carrying a victim through a burning building. Since Boden is tasked with analyzing a fire that collapsed with a firefighter inside, he may be investigating Damon’s potential death. If that tragedy comes to pass, Boden’s leadership and experience could be exactly what Firehouse 51 needs to rebuild and push forward.

Our Take On Boden’s Chicago Fire Return
It’s Exactly What The Show Needs

Eamonn Walker’s return as Wallace Boden is a major event for Chicago Fire, bringing back a beloved leader at a critical moment. With tensions high and the potential loss of a firefighter looming, his appearance will be a steadying force. Whether this is a one-time return or a hint at more to come, Boden’s impact on Firehouse 51 remains undeniable. Fans won’t want to miss his comeback in Chicago Fire, which promises a potentially gut-wrenching episode, or two.