Chicago Fire Cast Change: Dermot Mulroney’s Chief Dom Pascal Steps Back from Firehouse 51
Chicago Fire recently saw a major cast change with Dermot Mulroney’s Chief Dom Pascal taking a step back from Firehouse 51 after facing consequences for his actions in a recent episode.
In the episode that aired on Wednesday, March 11, Chief Pascal had his position revoked after he defied a federal agent’s orders during an investigation at a house fire. Although the charges against him were dropped, Pascal’s leadership role was still in jeopardy.
Chief Pascal broke the news to the members of Firehouse 51 that he was asked to leave his position immediately. Despite considering retirement from firefighting, Pascal mentioned that a former colleague from Phoenix offered to connect him with a firehouse in Arizona, leaving his future uncertain.
Showrunner Andrea Newman shared insights into Pascal’s journey, stating, “He’s been on the ropes… it’s kind of a journey for him from the beginning, where he really wasn’t connected to 51 as closely as the chiefs we’ve seen in the past.” Newman added that Pascal’s departure will lead him on a new path, raising questions about his return to Firehouse 51.
Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) discovered that Pascal left his office and a copy of the captain handbook to him, signifying a passing of the torch as interim commanding officer. The storyline coincides with the announcement earlier this year that Mulroney’s character would be absent for the remainder of season 14.
While Mulroney’s return is possible at the end of the season, Rob Morgan will be taking over the role of Battalion Chief Hopkins. Hopkins is described as having a complicated history overseeing Chicago firehouses and asserting authority over his new colleagues.
NBC’s Jeff Bader addressed the constant cast changes in the Chicago franchise, noting that the shows continue to thrive despite the shifts. Bader emphasized the network’s commitment to the success of the One Chicago universe on Wednesday nights.
Chicago Fire airs on NBC on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET, showcasing the ongoing drama and challenges faced by the firefighters of Firehouse 51.
