In a move that has sent shockwaves through the “One Chicago” fandom, Chicago Fire has officially bid a tearful farewell to one of its most beloved characters: Firefighter Darren Ritter, played by Daniel Kyri. After seven seasons of heroism, heart, and groundbreaking representation, Kyri’s departure marks the end of an era for Firehouse 51, leaving a void that fans and castmates alike say will be impossible to fill.

A Bittersweet Departure

The news of Kyri’s exit first surfaced as a result of network-wide budget cuts, but showrunners were determined not to let Ritter disappear without a proper send-off. Unlike other characters who have vanished off-screen, Ritter was given a poignant multi-episode arc at the start of Season 14 to wrap up his journey.

The storyline saw Ritter grappling with the distance between him and his ex-boyfriend, Dwayne, who had moved to New York City. When Dwayne was shot in the line of duty, Ritter didn’t hesitate—he rushed to the East Coast to be by his side. In a moment of clarity and emotional growth, Ritter realized that his future lay with the man he loved. After a brief return to Chicago to settle his affairs and say his goodbyes to his second family at 51, he officially moved to New York, taking an “extended furlough” that serves as a definitive, yet hopeful, exit.

“You Made History”

Following the airing of his final scenes, Daniel Kyri took to Instagram to share a deeply moving tribute to the character and the show that changed his life. Reflecting on a journey that was originally intended to last only three episodes, Kyri expressed awe at his seven-year tenure.

“I am still so amazed that my first-ever TV gig turned into seven incredible years,” Kyri wrote. He specifically highlighted the importance of Ritter’s identity as a gay Black firefighter, noting that the character represented a “possibility I never got to see onscreen in my childhood but desperately craved.” His message concluded with a direct address to his character: “You made history. Thank you so much, Darren Ritter. And goodbye.”

The Future of Firehouse 51

Ritter’s exit is part of a larger shake-up at Chicago Fire. Alongside Kyri, actor Jake Lockett (who played Sam Carver) also departed the series, signaling a period of significant transition for the CFD. Showrunner Andrea Newman has teased that “turnover and craziness” will continue to define the new season as the firehouse adapts to new leadership and budget-driven staff changes.

While the “51” family is mourning the loss of Ritter’s steady presence and quiet bravery, the door remains slightly ajar. Newman noted that in the world of Chicago Fire, “hellos and goodbyes” are often cyclical, and there is always hope for a guest appearance down the line. For now, however, fans must adjust to a firehouse that—without Ritter’s empathy and wit—simply won’t be the same.