Chicago Fire Season 15: 5 Characters That Likely Won’t Return For NBC Drama

Jack Damon seems like one of the least likely characters to return for Chicago Fire Season 15. The firefighter disappeared from Firehouse 51 between Seasons 13 finale and the premiere of 14 after requesting a transfer, with his exit happening entirely off-screen. The sudden departure came because actor Michael Bradway left the show to take a series regular role on Prime Video’s Every Year After, which premiered in June. If that series lands a second season, Bradway’s schedule could keep him away from Chicago Fire. And even if it doesn’t, there’s still no sign the writers are planning to bring Damon back, making it feel like his time at 51 is probably over.

Sam Carver's (Jake Lockett) chances of returning to Chicago Fire Season 15 seem slim. Before Season 14, it was revealed that Jake Lockett would be leaving the show, with the Season 13 finale explaining Carver’s exit through his decision to transfer to a firehouse in Denver for a fresh start. Although Carver later returned for a guest appearance, the visit mainly served to wrap up his story with Violet. While it was obvious he still had feelings for her, Violet finally got the closure she needed and moved on, eventually starting a romance with Vasquez. Unless the writers have plans to bring Carver back full-time, another return would feel unnecessary. 

Darren Ritter also seems unlikely to return in Season 15. Daniel Kyri exited the series early in Season 14 as part of the show's budget-related cast cuts. To explain his departure, the writers sent Ritter to New York to be with his longtime boyfriend, Dwayne. After that, however, the show barely mentioned him again and moved on from his exit. Since the writers didn't make much effort to revisit his story or provide updates on his life in New York during Season 14, it doesn't feel like bringing him back is a priority heading into Season 15. 

Lucy Zambetti (Jeanine Mason) arrived late in Chicago Fire Season 14 and became a welcome addition to Firehouse 51. Originally hired as Chief Pascal’s assistant after his firing, it seemed like she might only stick around for an episode or two. But, Lucy proved herself to be a reliable ally and fit in well with the team. Unfortunately, her willingness to help the firefighters landed her in trouble. After assisting Kidd with obtaining old case files by using Chief Hopkins’ name, Lucy was fired by Hopkins. Many fans expected her to fight for her job, but she vanished from the story soon afterward. With no follow-up to her exit, a return in Season 15 seems unlikely. 

Chief Andre Hopkins (Rob Morgan) is another character who feels like a long shot for Chicago Fire Season 15. He arrived in Season 14 after Chief Pascal’s departure and became one of the season’s main villains. Hopkins had a personal issue with Severide and was determined to make his life difficult because of a grudge he’d been carrying against Severide’s father, Benny, for years. What made the storyline surprising was how quickly it wrapped up. Before the season finale, Severide uncovered the truth behind the incident that fueled Hopkins’ resentment, and Hopkins ultimately left 51. With his story seemingly resolved, there’s little reason to expect him back next season.