Chicago Fire Faces Another Major Cast Departure Ahead of Season 14
The Chicago Fire cast is undergoing significant changes as Michael Bradway, known for his role as Jack Damon, exits the series ahead of Season 14, compounding recent departures from Firehouse 51. This latest shakeup raises questions about the show’s evolving dynamic and fan reception.
In a move set to impact the upcoming Season 14 of NBC’s Chicago Fire, actor Michael Bradway will not be returning as Jack Damon, the half-brother of Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney). The news, revealed by Tvline on Thursday, July 17, marks another significant casting shift for the long-running drama, coming just weeks after two other major players departed Firehouse 51.
Bradway, who portrayed Damon for the past two seasons, is stepping away to pursue a new project. He recently announced his casting in Prime Video’s Every Year After, an adaptation of Carley Fortune’s acclaimed novel Every Summer After.
Bradway shared his excitement on social media:
“Couldn’t be more excited to be your Charlie 🚤,” he wrote on Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/michaelbradway/
A Wave of Exits Hits Firehouse 51
Bradway’s departure follows closely on the heels of other prominent cast members, Jake Lockett, who played Sam Carver, and Daniel Ky, known as Darren Ritter, both leaving as series regulars. While showrunner Andrea Newman has alluded to Parade that their exits do not necessarily preclude future appearances, the cumulative effect of these changes is keenly felt by the audience.
Producers for Chicago Fire have indicated they are open to Bradway reprising his role if his future schedule permits, offering a glimmer of hope for fans. However, the news has undoubtedly left many viewers disheartened by the ongoing turnover.
Fan Reactions Highlight Concerns Over Cast Stability
The frequent casting changes have sparked a strong reaction among the show’s dedicated fanbase. Viewers have voiced a mix of disappointment and concern over the show’s evolving ensemble.
“Not liking the changes: he’s out and he’s in,” one recent viewer commented, likely referencing the addition of Brandon Larracuente to the cast amidst the multiple exits. “I am late to the party but adding someone unknown to replace those not invited back makes me not want to attend.”
Another fan expressed a desire for continuity, stating, “I’d rather they keep who they have instead of adding new characters. I like the current cast. Not sure what the point was of bringing in this half-brother for Severide, but oh well.”
The sentiment of loss resonated across social media. “I’ll miss him and the others leaving Chicago Fire. I really liked all 3,” one mournful viewer wrote. Another echoed this, lamenting, “I hate to know 3 regulars that we all really liked will not be returning! Shoot!”
The recurring theme among many comments is a call for greater stability within the cast. “Please get this show more stable characters!” pleaded one viewer, a sentiment shared by another who noted, “too much turnover on shows now.”
While a majority expressed sadness over Bradway’s exit, with one affirming, “I will miss him,” it is important to note that not all viewers share the same sentiment. “To be fair, not gonna miss the guy,” admitted one commenter, highlighting the diverse opinions within the fanbase.
Learn more about Chicago Fire casting news or explore insights into Firehouse 51‘s future.
