The Season 13 finale of Chicago Fire, titled “It Had to End This Way,” aired on NBC on May 21, 2025, delivering a gripping mix of emotional highs and surprising twists that left fans buzzing. With Lieutenant Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) announcing her pregnancy, Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) clearing his name, and Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) making a selfless career move, the episode sets a dramatic stage for Season 14. Drawing from insights by TV Insider, Nuzpost unpacks the finale’s biggest moments and what they mean for the future of Firehouse 51.
Stellaride’s Game-Changing Pregnancy
The finale’s standout moment came when Stella Kidd revealed to her husband, Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney), that she’s pregnant, marking a joyous milestone for the beloved “Stellaride” couple. After a failed adoption attempt earlier in the season, this news offers a fresh start for the pair, whose relationship has weathered countless storms. Showrunner Andrea Newman told TV Insider, “Stellaride baby on the way, and they’re so excited!” However, she hinted at potential complications, leaving fans curious about how parenthood will unfold in Season 14.
The pregnancy aligns with Kidd’s evolving role at Firehouse 51. Earlier episodes showed her grappling with leadership pressures, particularly when Mouch briefly took over Truck 81, easing her concerns about stepping back for maternity leave. The announcement promises to deepen Stellaride’s bond, with their shared resilience at the heart of their journey. Fans can expect Season 14 to explore how Kidd and Severide balance their high-risk jobs with impending parenthood.
Herrmann’s Selfless Sacrifice
Christopher Herrmann’s arc took a heartfelt turn as he opted out of the chief’s exam, choosing instead to demote himself to a regular firefighter to secure a lieutenant position for his best friend, Randy “Mouch” McHolland (Christian Stolte). Newman explained to TV Insider that Herrmann’s decision stemmed from pressure to follow in Chief Boden’s footsteps and his realization that he didn’t truly want the chief role. “He’s caught between Boden’s expectations and Mouch’s rejuvenation,” she noted, adding that Pascal sensed Herrmann’s hesitation early on.
This selfless act underscores the family dynamic at Firehouse 51, with Herrmann prioritizing Mouch’s career over his own ambitions. However, the move raises logistical challenges, as Newman teased “two-man trucks” and rotating staff in Season 14, which could lead to operational hiccups. Herrmann’s demotion will likely reshape his role, sparking curiosity about how he’ll adapt as a rank-and-file firefighter after years of leadership.
Pascal’s Redemption Arc
Chief Dom Pascal faced intense scrutiny in the finale, accused of attempting to murder Robert Franklin, the man linked to his wife Monica’s death. Severide risked his career to investigate, wrestling with doubts about Pascal’s innocence. Newman told CinemaBlend, “There’s a nagging question underneath. Did Pascal do this thing?” Ultimately, Severide’s efforts cleared Pascal, revealing another culprit. Pascal admitted to TV Insider that he considered killing Franklin but credited Severide for helping him reconsider.
The resolution cemented Pascal’s place at Firehouse 51, especially after the team rallied around him during Monica’s funeral in Episode 16. Newman noted that this moment made Pascal realize “51 feels like his home.” His bond with Severide, tested by suspicion, emerged stronger, though ongoing leadership shifts—sparked by Herrmann’s demotion and Mouch’s promotion—hint at future tensions.
Key Departures and New Dynamics
The finale marked the departure of two fan-favorite characters, Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri) and Sam Carver (Jake Lockett). Carver’s exit was particularly emotional, as he and Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) declared their love just before his planned move to Denver. Newman assured TV Insider that their absences will be addressed in Season 14, leaving open the possibility of future returns. The exits, combined with staffing shortages, set the stage for new characters and dynamics, with Newman hinting at “rotations of people coming in and covering.”
Kidd’s mentorship of Natalie, a young girl from her Girls on Fire program, added depth to her character, showcasing her balance of leadership and compassion. This subplot, highlighted by TV Insider, underscores Kidd’s growth as she navigates personal and professional challenges.
What’s Next for Season 14
The Season 13 finale sets up a transformative Season 14, with Stellaride’s pregnancy poised to explore their journey as parents. Herrmann’s demotion and Mouch’s promotion will shift Firehouse 51’s hierarchy, while Pascal’s redemption ensures his continued leadership—for now. The departures of Ritter and Carver, coupled with potential new recruits, promise fresh storylines, though fans remain wary of further shake-ups, as noted by ScreenRant. Chicago Fire continues to blend heart-pounding action with deep personal drama, keeping viewers hooked.
Nuzpost will keep you updated on Chicago Fire Season 14 developments and more.
