Why Herrmann Might Never Become Chief on Chicago Fire—Despite Being the Obvious Choice
Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) was once considered the heir apparent at Firehouse 51. He was the seasoned veteran who had earned the trust of Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker), the long-standing Chief, and someone who always put his life on the line without hesitation. So when Boden hinted in the Chicago Fire Season 12 finale that Herrmann could be his successor, it felt like a natural progression.
After all, Herrmann had all the right traits. He’s respected by his peers, knows the job inside and out, and carries a strong moral compass. But when push came to shove, he didn’t have the official credentials or leadership training—enter Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney), who was brought in to fill the leadership vacuum. Still, many fans believed it was just a matter of time before Herrmann caught up and claimed the role for himself.
Now, that future is looking far less certain.
Herrmann’s Reluctance Comes Into Focus
In a recent interview, Eamonn Walker revealed some telling details about Herrmann’s mindset heading into the season’s final stretch. Speaking about the episode titled “Post Mortem”, Walker admitted that Boden may have misread Herrmann’s willingness—or even desire—to take on the Chief role.
Walker explained that Boden starts to realize something critical about his longtime colleague: Herrmann might not want the job at all. “There’s no resolve to it,” Walker said. “Because growth is painful, and you don’t just one day pass an exam and all of a sudden you know how to do the job.” He emphasized that even those who appear ready on paper often face a tough road ahead, filled with second-guessing and doubt.
Interestingly, Walker’s comments also drew a parallel between Herrmann and his best friend, Mouch (Christian Stolte). Both men recently passed their leadership exams, but neither seems fully committed to stepping up. While the doors to promotion are open, neither seems eager to walk through them.
A Heavy Price and a Turning Point
The episode “Post Mortem” underscores just how high the stakes really are. A tragic incident leaves a person dead, and it shakes the foundation of leadership at Firehouse 51. For veterans like Herrmann and Mouch, it’s a jarring reminder of what leadership truly entails—it’s not just about paperwork and seniority, but the lives that hang in the balance every day.
“You have their lives in your hands,” Walker said. “You make one mistake, and someone dies. That’s pretty heavy. Not everybody wants that.” It’s a stark contrast to the camaraderie and routine that both men have grown used to over the years. And while Boden hasn’t given up on either of them, it’s clear he recognizes their hesitation.
What Comes Next for Herrmann?
Herrmann’s journey is far from over. There’s still a possibility he could rise to the occasion and prove himself worthy of the Chief title. But right now, that possibility feels more distant than ever. His reluctance to embrace leadership, combined with the recent trauma faced by the squad, suggests that he may not want the job—at least not yet.
As Chicago Fire heads toward the close of Season 13, Herrmann is caught in a crucial moment of self-reflection. Is he willing to step outside his comfort zone and lead? Or will he remain the trusted team player who never quite makes the leap?
Firehouse 51 is in flux. And while the door remains open, Herrmann has yet to walk through it.
