The Chicago Fire season 13 finale, titled “It Had to End This Way,” wasn’t just another ending. It was a mix of emotional payoffs, unfinished exits, and big personal revelations that will shape season 14. While the Wolf Entertainment dramas are known for saving shocks for their finales, this one landed heavier than expected.

At its heart, the episode was about relationships—friendships, romances, and the unshakable bonds inside Firehouse 51. Still, the way some of those storylines were handled left fans conflicted.

The Ritter and Carver Dilemma

Going into the finale, it was already confirmed that Jake Lockett and Daniel Kyri would be leaving their roles as Sam Carver and Darren Ritter. Fans braced for heartfelt exits. Instead, both characters remained at 51 by the episode’s end.

This decision creates more questions than answers. Delaying their departures only puts added pressure on season 14 to explain them in a believable way. Ritter, who represents both the queer community and is the only remaining Black regular since Boden’s exit, has long deserved stronger writing. Carver, meanwhile, has been building real momentum with the team and with Violet. To see his Denver “sobriety excuse” tossed in so abruptly felt hollow, especially since his strongest support system is right there in Chicago.

For now, both men remain part of the ensemble, but fans know their time is ticking.

Severide and Kidd’s Next Chapter

While some stories stalled, Stellaride finally got a major development. After the slow and recycled adoption arc, the finale surprised viewers with Stella Kidd’s pregnancy reveal.

The rushed nature of the reveal raised eyebrows—especially since Kidd was previously hesitant about motherhood. Her difficult upbringing and doubts about bringing a child into their unpredictable world were important points that the finale brushed past.

Still, ending the season with this twist gives fans something to hold onto. Kelly Severide and Stella Kidd’s relationship has weathered storms before, but this is a new frontier. Season 14 could be at its strongest if it dives into the real challenges of balancing parenthood, duty, and the baggage both characters carry. Ignoring Kidd’s earlier fears would be a missed opportunity.

Herrmann, Mouch, and the Weight of Leadership

Among the quieter but more emotional moments of the finale was a single conversation between Christopher Herrmann and Mouch McHolland. Herrmann’s sacrifice reinforced just how much these two remain the soul of Firehouse 51.

At the same time, the episode also worked to cement Dom Pascal’s leadership. Severide vouched for him, even protecting his new boss from criticism. With NBC introducing Dermot Mulroney as Pascal, it’s clear the show wants him to stick.

Yet questions remain. Can Pascal truly win over the firehouse family, or will fans always prefer Herrmann or Mouch in leadership roles? For now, Pascal feels more like a placeholder than a fully integrated part of the team.

What made this finale sting wasn’t just who left—or who didn’t. It was the weight of unrealized potential. Ritter and Carver’s exits were delayed instead of explored. Stellaride’s pregnancy was exciting but rushed. Pascal’s rise felt more like a network decision than an organic story beat.

And yet, the finale still delivered. Herrmann and Mouch showed why they remain fan favorites. Stellaride gave fans hope for the future. And the sense that season 14 has a lot to answer for ensures people will be back when the sirens sound again.

Looking Ahead to Season 14

As Chicago Fire gears up for another season, the challenges are clear. The writers must provide meaningful exits for Ritter and Carver, deepen Stellaride’s pregnancy arc, and make Pascal more than a plot device.

If done right, season 14 could turn this uneven finale into the start of something much stronger. Firehouse 51 has survived losses before, but the silence around certain storylines won’t last forever.