Is Brandon Larracuente leaving 'Chicago Fire'? Exit rumors swirl after Vasquez's absence in latest episode
Speculation mills are rife with the buzz that Brandon Larracuente's Sal Vasquez might be bidding farewell to 'Chicago Fire'. Larracuente, who joined Firehouse 51 as a series regular in Season 14, quickly grabbed attention for his confident, self-assured attitude. At times, his confidence can come across as arrogance, causing tension with some colleagues; however, his firefighting skills are impressive. But is there any truth behind the rumors about Larracuente leaving 'Chicago Fire'?
The answer is no, Larracuente is not leaving 'Chicago Fire' for now. His character, Vasquez, was absent from the Wednesday, February 4, episode due to a story-driven decision: City Hall temporarily reassigning firefighters to other stations. Larracuente's Sal received a short-term assignment away from Firehouse 51, keeping him off-screen. However, Sal later texted Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) to say he missed the team, reassuring fans he's still part of the show, as per Coming Soon.
Notably, Vasquez's budding romance with Mikami, the paramedic in charge at Firehouse 51, is drawing major attention. From the very first moment they met, the chemistry between the two was undeniable, sparking intrigue and excitement among viewers. However, their relationship hasn't been straightforward, as a love triangle emerged when Mikami discovered that her best friend, Lizzy Novak (Jocelyn Hudon), also had feelings for Vasquez, as per NBC.
Determined not to come between her friend and the man she was growing close to, Mikami initially tried to suppress her attraction. Despite her efforts, the connection between her and Vasquez only deepened, making it increasingly clear that their bond was special. The situation became more complicated when Mikami noticed that Novak had started a fling with Dr. John Frost (Darren Barnet), from 'Chicago Med'. Interpreting this as a signal that Novak had moved on from Vasquez, Mikami felt it was finally safe to embrace her feelings, paving the way for a new romance on the show.
Mikami and Vasquez also shared a romantic kiss after leaving Molly's together. Mikami later revealed they spent a fun night together. When Novak admitted she still had a crush on Vasquez, Mikami panicked and decided to keep her actions private. Notably, Vasquez joined Firehouse 51 as Firefighter Sam Carver's (Jake Lockett) replacement on Firefighter Stella Kidd's (Miranda Rae Mayo) team, confidently asserting he's better than his predecessor.
On his first call, his reckless decision-making behind the wheel frustrated Kidd, though he remained unapologetic since the outcome was ultimately successful, as per One Chicago Center. Kidd grew concerned about Vasquez's attitude and risky decisions, asking Battalion Chief Dominick 'Dom' Pascal (Dermot Mulroney) to review his files, but he refused. Unknown to her, Pascal recruited Vasquez as a favor, making him a mystery within Firehouse 51. Known for breaking protocol, his transfer to 51 may be his last chance in the CFD, setting him up as a complex character to follow in Season 14.
