Eamonn Walker Addresses His Chicago Fire Future Ahead of Season 13 Return
After being absent from Chicago Fire since his season 12 exit, Eamonn Walker is finally returning to the screen as Deputy Commissioner Wallace Boden in the upcoming episode titled “Post Mortem.” While his departure from Firehouse 51 came with the promise of future appearances, fans have been waiting all season to see the beloved former chief again. Now, Walker is opening up about his return—and whether it’s a one-time deal or the beginning of more to come.
Walker Reflects on Returning to Set
Speaking with Deadline, Walker described his return to the long-running NBC procedural as deeply emotional. “It was amazing to go back,” he said. “It was amazing to put the uniform on. I’d missed everybody terribly, and the welcome that I got was second to none. I feel very privileged as an actor to have a cast, a crew, and a production office step up and welcome you home.”
Walker, who has played Boden since the show’s 2012 debut, emphasized the strong bond he shares with the Chicago Fire cast and crew, noting the behind-the-scenes support system they’ve built over the years. But while the actor was happy to return, questions still remain about how often fans can expect to see him.
Will Boden Appear Again?
When pressed about future appearances, Walker didn’t confirm any plans but left the door open. “The truth of the matter is, if they write it, I will always come back and do it if I can be here,” he explained. “It’s a wonderful thing to be part of the Chicago Fire family. We support each other in so many ways that people can’t even possibly imagine, on and off the screen.”
His comments hint at a willingness to return should the story call for it—leaving fans hopeful that his cameo in “Post Mortem” may not be his last.
Why Boden Has Been Absent
While Boden’s departure as chief was framed with optimism—accepting a promotion to Deputy Commissioner while still remaining part of the Chicago Fire Department—he’s remained noticeably absent throughout season 13. According to Walker, this absence has been intentional from an in-universe standpoint.
“Now he’s got the whole Chicago Fire Department, so all of Chicago is under his wing,” the actor said. “He knows the reputation he received for having a favorite with Firehouse 51, and he can’t afford to have that as Deputy Commissioner.”
Boden’s desire to maintain impartiality explains why he’s stayed away from 51—at least until a serious incident draws him back.
Boden Returns Under Tense Circumstances
In “Post Mortem,” Boden returns to Firehouse 51 not for a warm reunion, but to lead an investigation after a firefighter is left behind during a blaze. The situation is tense, and as Deputy Commissioner, Boden must tread carefully. His involvement places him at odds with the current leadership, particularly Chief Pascal, played by Dermot Mulroney.
Walker teased that the episode carries an especially dramatic weight, even calling it cinematic in scope. “The writing in this episode is fantastic, and the filming of it is unusual for a Chicago Fire episode,” he said. “I think you’ve got more of a movie here than an episode.”
Chicago Fire returns with “Post Mortem” on Wednesday, April 16 at 9/8c on NBC. Whether this is a brief cameo or the start of a longer arc for Boden, fans will surely be watching closely.
