After NBC officially renewed Chicago Fire for season 15, fans were not only eagerly anticipating the breathtaking rescues and emotional relationships at Firehouse 51, but also constantly asking one big question: Where did Dermot Mulroney go? The actor’s sudden disappearance from many of the final episodes of season 14 led many viewers to worry that this was a sign of a permanent farewell. However, the truth behind it wasn’t entirely as the rumors circulating on social media suggested.
Joining the Chicago Fire as Battalion Chief Dom Pascal, Dermot Mulroney brought a completely different leadership style compared to Wallace Boden. While Boden was known for his calmness and ability to inspire, Pascal was a strict, decisive commander who always prioritized discipline.
This difference created many interesting conflicts in Firehouse 51. Initially, many viewers were hesitant about the new character, but as the film progressed, Pascal proved himself to be more than just a “replacement”; he was a personality capable of making his own mark.
Dermot Mulroney also received much praise for his ability to portray a seasoned, tough commander who still carried within him very human wounds and pressures.
In early 2026, the producer confirmed that Dermot Mulroney only took a hiatus from the show during part of season 14. This was a pre-prepared plan, not a sudden decision or a behind-the-scenes conflict. During the actor’s absence, Firehouse 51 was led by a new commander, assumed by Rob Morgan, helping the film open up many different directions of development.
This also allows the writers to focus more on the remaining characters such as Kelly Severide, Stella Kidd, Christopher Herrmann and Violet Mikami, instead of having every story revolve around the new commander.
Immediately after news of his temporary hiatus emerged, numerous social media posts claimed Dermot Mulroney had been cut from the role or would never return. However, there has been no official confirmation that the actor is leaving Chicago Fire permanently.
Conversely, many sources indicate that the original plan was simply for Dom Pascal to temporarily leave the screen for a certain period during season 14. After the season concludes, the possibility of Pascal returning in season 15 remains very high.
Following Andrea Newman’s departure as showrunner, season 15 will be led by Victor Teran. This change promises a fresh storytelling approach and also presents an opportunity to “refresh” Dom Pascal’s role if the character returns.
It’s highly likely that the season 15 opening will focus on explaining what happened to Pascal after the events of the previous season, as well as clarifying whether he will continue his involvement with Firehouse 51.
If Pascal appears in the first episode, viewers will witness the consequences of the unresolved events from the end of season 14. If he returns later, his absence will likely become a significant part of the new storyline.
Dermot Mulroney’s temporary departure is just one part of Chicago Fire’s ongoing restructuring. Recent seasons have seen a series of personnel changes, from Wallace Boden leaving command and Dom Pascal’s arrival to the departure of many familiar characters. This demonstrates that the show is entering a major transitional phase after more than a decade on air.
Therefore, season 15 is not just about whether a character will return, but also a test for the entire Firehouse 51 as its leadership, operations, and relationships are all changing.
Many viewers believe that this character still has much untapped potential, especially in his relationships with Kelly Severide, Stella Kidd, and Christopher Herrmann. Having Pascal disappear so early leaves the character development from the last two seasons feeling incomplete.
To date, all indications suggest Dermot Mulroney’s absence is temporary, rather than a formal farewell to Chicago Fire. Whether Dom Pascal will appear from the start or return after the first few episodes of season 15 remains a mystery, but the possibility of a return to Firehouse 51 is still very much open.
With a new showrunner, many new development directions, and a host of unresolved storylines, Chicago Fire season 15 promises to be a turbulent chapter for this long-running television franchise. And if Dom Pascal does return, it will undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated moments of the season.