As Chicago Fire nears the end of its gripping 13th season, fans can expect even more explosive drama and emotional twists in the final stretch. According to longtime cast member Joe Miñoso, who plays firefighter Joe Cruz, the final episodes will be some of the most unforgettable in the show’s decade-long history — particularly for fans of characters with deep ties to the show’s roots.
Speaking in a recent interview with MovieWeb, Miñoso gave a tantalizing preview of what’s to come in the final two episodes of the season, including a major surprise involving a beloved former character. While he didn’t mention names directly, he referenced actress Lauren German, who played paramedic Leslie Shay in the show’s early seasons, hinting at something major tied to her storyline. Shay’s character, who tragically died in season 3, has remained one of the most deeply mourned figures in Chicago Fire history.
“I just read the end of [episode] 21. We’re currently filming 20 and, oh boy, are you guys in for a surprise,” Miñoso revealed. “Like, concerning Lauren German’s character — it’s one of those things where you’re reading it, and your jaw just drops. I think it’s going to be a very, very exciting last couple of episodes.”
An Emotional Season Filled with Change and Loss
Season 13 has already delivered its fair share of high-stakes storylines. One of the biggest shake-ups came at the end of season 12, when longtime Battalion Chief Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker) stepped down from his post, paving the way for the introduction of a new character: Chief Dom Pascal, played by Dermot Mulroney.
Pascal’s tenure has been rocky from the start, and recent episodes have seen him spiral following the sudden and tragic death of his wife in a car accident. As Chicago Fire often does, the fallout from this event is not just personal but professional, creating ripple effects that could culminate in serious consequences for Firehouse 51 in the season’s closing chapters.
With Boden making a highly anticipated return in episode 18 — set to air April 16 — fans are bracing for intense confrontations, emotional reckonings, and revelations that could shape the series moving forward.
Why Chicago Fire Still Resonates After 13 Seasons
In a time when network television is often dismissed as outdated, Chicago Fire continues to stand as a testament to the power of compelling ensemble storytelling and emotional authenticity. The show remains a cornerstone of NBC’s “One Chicago” universe, drawing in loyal weekly viewers who return for more than just the high-octane rescue scenes.
For Miñoso, the show’s staying power comes down to its heart — and its ability to unite families around a shared viewing experience.
“Our greatest point of pride, and this has happened to almost all of us, is at some point, some fan will come up to us and say, ‘Oh my God, you guys are the only thing that the whole family sits down and watches,’” Miñoso shared. “We’re there for three hours, no one moves, and no one calls us because they know — don’t bother. And it’s like, how lucky are we that we get to be a part of that?”
He believes the series connects with audiences on a deeper level because of its emphasis on hope and the power of community.
“We really try to exemplify hope — but hope that is specifically derived from people working together,” he said. “That’s one of the greatest values the show has to offer: the idea that we are stronger than the sum of our parts.”
What’s Next for Chicago Fire?
With just a few episodes left this season, fans are on edge waiting to see how the storylines will unfold — and whether any long-lost characters might make a surprise return. The mention of Lauren German’s character alone is enough to spark speculation and excitement, even if it comes in the form of a flashback or emotional tribute.
As Chicago Fire prepares to close out its 13th season, it’s clear that the show is not slowing down. With emotionally rich storytelling, powerful performances, and the promise of major revelations ahead, the final episodes are poised to deliver the kind of drama that has kept viewers coming back for over a decade.
Episode 18 of Chicago Fire season 13 premieres Wednesday, April 16, 2025, on NBC.
