Fans of NBC’s popular series Chicago Fire will see a significant change in the latter part of Season 14 as Dermot Mulroney takes a hiatus from his role as Battalion Chief Dominick “Dom” Pascal. According to Deadline, Mulroney’s character will last appear in Episode 14, with plans for him to be absent until the season’s conclusion. While the details surrounding his return are still under wraps, it is expected that he may make a comeback later in the season.
In the meantime, viewers will be introduced to a new character: Battalion Chief Hopkins, portrayed by Rob Morgan. Morgan, known for his performances in Mudbound and The Last Black Man in San Francisco, will make his debut in Episode 16 and is set to appear in four episodes, including the season finale. His character will bring a complex background to the series, having a troubled history overseeing multiple Chicago firehouses and demonstrating a commanding presence.
Upcoming Crossover Event and Future of the Series
Mulroney will feature in the upcoming crossover event, airing on March 4, 2024, which includes episodes of Chicago Med and Chicago P.D.. This highly anticipated event will take place from 8 to 11 p.m. ET/PT, and fans can expect significant developments that will intertwine the narratives of the three shows.
As for Mulroney’s absence, sources indicate that it aligns with Pascal’s storyline, which will unfold as the season progresses. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of both his character’s departure and Morgan’s role in the series. Currently, there has been no official word regarding the renewal of Chicago Fire for a potential 15th season, leaving fans in suspense.
Background on Dermot Mulroney and Rob Morgan
Mulroney joined the ensemble cast of Chicago Fire in July 2024, following the departure of Eamonn Walker, who played a long-standing role as Chief Boden. Since Season 13, Mulroney has brought a distinct leadership style to the show, earning the respect and trust of his colleagues at Firehouse 51.
In addition to his role in Chicago Fire, Mulroney is also a series regular on the Netflix drama The Hunting Wives, where he plays Jed Banks. The second season of this series began production in November 2023 and is expected to premiere later this year.
Morgan, on the other hand, has built a diverse portfolio with roles in several acclaimed television series and films. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Turk Barrett in Netflix’s Marvel series, which includes Daredevil and Jessica Jones. More recently, he starred in the Peacock horror series Teacup and depicted Earvin Johnson Sr. in HBO’s Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.
Morgan has also made his mark in film, being part of critically acclaimed projects such as Just Mercy and Mudbound. His latest film, Frank & Louis, is set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, marking his sixth appearance at the prestigious event.
This season of Chicago Fire promises to deliver excitement and drama, particularly with the introduction of new dynamics as the show navigates the hiatus of a key character while welcoming a fresh face to the roster. As the season unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate the developments that will shape the future of their favorite firehouse drama.
