By TV Fanatic Staff | April 14, 2025
The embers are about to reignite at Firehouse 51 — but it’s not just the flames that’ll be burning. Blake Gallo may be gone, Boden is back, and now another familiar face is set to return: Carver. And according to Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman, he’s not coming back alone — he’s bringing a surprise that could shake things up in a big way.
Fans have been wondering when we’d see Jake Lockett’s troubled yet beloved firefighter back in action after his emotional exit earlier this season. Carver last appeared in the February 26 episode, where he made the painful but necessary decision to enter rehab following a relapse with alcohol addiction — a storyline that earned praise for its realistic and compassionate portrayal of substance abuse recovery.
In his absence, Violet has been navigating her own emotional storm. Still reeling from their unresolved feelings, she poured her heart out in a heartfelt letter to Carver — a letter she ultimately never sent. Her reason? Respect. She wanted to give him the space to heal without added pressure. But now that he’s returning to 51, their reunion could reopen old wounds… or spark a fresh start.
“Carver will be back in the next few episodes,” Newman teased in an interview with TVLine, “but he’s coming back with a surprise.”
What could that surprise be? And what will it mean for his place on the team — and with Violet?
A Complicated Past and an Unfinished Story
Carver’s recent journey has been one of the most compelling character arcs on Chicago Fire this season. After returning from Texas with former flame Tori, things quickly spiraled out of control. Their rekindled romance led to reckless behavior, missed calls, poor decisions on the job, and a stern warning from Lt. Kidd. When Tori finally left Chicago, Carver was left to pick up the pieces — and ultimately seek help.
His exit was quiet, but it left a lasting impact on the team — and especially Violet. Their relationship, once full of slow-burning tension and unexpected tenderness, remains one of the show’s most talked-about dynamics. Violet has since started dating high-powered lawyer Flynn, but signs suggest she may not be entirely over her feelings for Carver.
Jake Lockett, who portrays Carver, hinted last year that the character’s heart is still very much entangled with Violet’s.
“I think it’d be hard not to be after how their relationship went last season,” Lockett told TVLine. “It would take time to move on from something like that. Maybe more time than they’ve had.”
Theories Are Flying — What Could the ‘Surprise’ Be?
Since Newman’s teaser dropped, Chicago Fire fans have been buzzing with speculation. Could Carver’s surprise be professional — like a promotion, a transfer, or even a decision to leave Firehouse 51? Or is it personal — a new love interest, a sobriety milestone, or perhaps… a dog?
One fan theory gaining traction is the possibility that Carver has adopted the dog he bonded with during a past rescue call, adding an unexpected twist to his emotional return. Others wonder if he may have reconnected with family, or taken on a mentorship role in his recovery — a plotline that could expand Chicago Fire’s exploration of mental health and second chances.
But not all theories are hopeful. Some viewers fear the “surprise” may involve a decision to leave 51 permanently — or a love triangle that puts Violet in an impossible situation.
Boden’s Return, Kidd’s Leadership, and What Comes Next
Carver’s comeback isn’t the only development on the horizon. The next episode, airing Wednesday, April 16 at 9/8c on NBC, will also mark the return of Chief Wallace Boden, as he investigates a case tied to “every firefighter’s worst nightmare.” His presence will undoubtedly add gravity to an already tense season.
With Lieutenant Kidd continuing to steer the team through changes, the return of Carver — and the ripple effect of his surprise — will likely test loyalties, reopen emotional wounds, and perhaps heal some too.
One thing’s for sure: Chicago Fire is setting the stage for some serious emotional flare-ups — the kind that go far beyond the blaze.
What do YOU think Carver’s surprise will be? Is he back for good — and is Violet ready to face what’s still burning between them? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to tune in this Wednesday for what promises to be another explosive hour of Chicago Fire.
