Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 13, titled “Born of Fire,” serves as a strong reminder of how long the NBC drama has been on air. The episode revisits a familiar storyline the show has explored multiple times before.

Meanwhile, one subplot naturally continues the evolution of a beloved relationship, and there are numerous callbacks to past characters and events. This combination highlights just how much history the series has built over the years.

The episode is heavily centered around Violet Mikami, as she comes face-to-face with someone from her past she never wanted to encounter again. However, her storyline also intertwines

with her complicated dynamic with Sam Carver. Elsewhere, Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide officially move forward with an important decision they had already agreed upon. While “Born of Fire” may not be the most unforgettable hour of Chicago Fire, it still provides engaging drama for dedicated fans.

Jared Lennox Resurfaces, Stirring Up Trouble

Chicago Fire has a habit of bringing back past troublemakers, and this time, it’s Jared Lennox making an unwelcome return. Viewers have seen characters like Hope Jacquinot and Emma Jacobs reappear before, and now, Lennox joins the list. His comeback is linked to a case involving Violet’s boyfriend, Flynn Calhoun, who is defending a medic accused of negligence. The moment Wesam Keesh’s name appears in the opening credits, it becomes obvious that Lennox is at the center of the case, eliminating any element of surprise.

Lennox presents himself as a reformed man, claiming to have changed thanks to Violet’s influence and pleading for her help. Initially, Violet is willing to fight for the defendant—until she realizes it’s Lennox, at which point she abruptly assumes his guilt. This quick shift in her stance feels somewhat forced, as the evidence remains unchanged. Her reaction seems driven by personal resentment rather than facts, though she has every right to feel that way. Eventually, however, Violet reconsiders and ultimately helps clear Lennox’s name. While his return may not have been entirely necessary, the resolution leans toward optimism rather than unnecessary deception.

Sam Carver’s Journey Takes a Backseat

Another subplot in the episode attempts to explore Sam Carver’s struggles with sobriety, picking up from the previous episode where he attended an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. Early on, viewers see part of another meeting, offering a glimpse into Carver’s progress. However, things take a dark turn when Carver crosses paths with a man named Lee, who later impersonates him and even threatens Violet.

Initially, this storyline is compelling, providing actor Jake Lockett with meaningful material. The episode thoughtfully addresses the challenges of being a recovering alcoholic when the central hangout spot for the firehouse crew is a bar. But once Lee’s true intentions are revealed, the subplot derails. Instead of a deeper exploration of Carver’s character, the focus shifts to a standard thriller plot, making the outcome predictable. Furthermore, an important moment—Carver confessing his struggles to Violet—is skipped over, leaving a gap in the emotional weight of the story.

A New Chapter for Stellaride

As “Born of Fire” nears its conclusion, the show revisits the subject of Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide adopting a child. While not a shocking development, the couple takes a concrete step by agreeing to call an adoption agency. This storyline reflects how TV romances typically progress—first the “will they, won’t they” phase, then marriage, and eventually, a baby.

A fun meta moment occurs when Violet playfully acknowledges their ship name, “Stellaride,” making it canon within the show. Additionally, references to Sylvie Brett and Molly’s North add nostalgic touches. These details, while small, contribute to the episode’s overall appeal. While “Born of Fire” doesn’t break new ground, it remains a solid installment that long-time viewers will appreciate.