Fans React to Dermot Mulroney's Temporary Exit from 'Chicago Fire' This Season Sammi BurkeJanuary 24, 2026 at 3:08 AM 0 The One Chicago universe is preparing for the temporary departure of yet another major character later this season. Dermot Mulroney, who plays Firehouse 51's Battalion Chief Dominick "Dom" Pascal, is reportedly getting ready to take his exit for the second half of the ongoing season of Chicago Fire. Deadline reports that Chief Pascal will be hitting the road following the 14th episode of the season, and he may not be seen again until the season comes to a close—if not longer.
- - Fans React to Dermot Mulroney's Temporary Exit from 'Chicago Fire' This Season
Sammi BurkeJanuary 24, 2026 at 3:08 AM
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The One Chicago universe is preparing for the temporary departure of yet another major character later this season.
Dermot Mulroney, who plays Firehouse 51's Battalion Chief Dominick "Dom" Pascal, is reportedly getting ready to take his exit for the second half of the ongoing season of Chicago Fire.
Deadline reports that Chief Pascal will be hitting the road following the 14th episode of the season, and he may not be seen again until the season comes to a close—if not longer. As the scripts for the final episodes are reportedly still being finalized, it's unconfirmed if he will return before, or even in, the finale—and so far, the show has not been renewed for a 15th season.
The publication indicated that the hiatus was specific to the character's storyline, versus a personal decision by Mulroney, writing that "viewers will understand more about the decision" and his temporary replacement's involvement as the season continues.
A Familiar Face Will Take His Place in the Interim
Filling in for him in his absence will be Battalion Chief Hopkins, portrayed by Rob Morgan—who you'll recognize as the Chief of Hawkins during Hopper's absence in Stranger Things. Hopkins is said to have "a long, haunted past" as a leader in the department and will be "quick to assert authority."
Rob Morgan as Officer Powell in 'Stranger Things.'Courtesy of Netflix (Courtesy of Netflix)
His series debut will take place in the 16th episode, and he'll appear in four episodes altogether, including the finale.
The departure follows his predecessor, Eamonn Walker's exit from his series regular role nearly two years ago. (Taylor Kinney also took a "leave of absence" several seasons ago, while over at Chicago P.D., Patrick Flueger stepped away for much of the first part of this season for personal reasons.) It took some time for the crew to warm up to Pascal on arrival, and we have a feeling the same will be said for Hopkins—though TBD if he's around long enough for it to even matter.
Viewers Are Starting Feel a Little Sick of Change on the Long-Running Series
Fans had mixed feelings about the news, with many having grown quite fond of Mulroney and his position on the team.
"Boooooo!!!" one vented, while another praised, "Dermot Mulroney is a great actor & wonderful Battallion [sic] Chief for Firehouse 51. And I don't want him to go!! He will be truly missed."
"Just as we started to like the guy," another lamented.
Of course, fans of Morgan were thrilled for his new role, tagging him with celebratory remarks on Instagram.
"Let's gooo @randomrobmorgan this is dope !" one cheered.
"Hell yes! Bravo @randomrobmorgan!" another applauded.
"@randomrobmorgan is an underrated choice," a third said. "he'll nail it!"
Others still were frustrated with the frequent changes on the show, with one declaring, "And this why I stopped watching too many changes."
"What a surprise, another change in Chicago Fire. 🙄," someone else agreed.
Other fan-favorite cast members Daniel Kyri, Michael Bradway, and Jake Lockett departed in the transition from Season 13 to Season 14, leaving things feeling a little tumultuous for viewers.
What do you think—are you over the cast switch-ups, or excited to see what comes?
Related: Marina Squerciati's 'Mad Cute' 2016 Photos Leave 'Chicago P.D.' Fans Stunned: 'Who Are These Absolute Babies'
This story was originally published by Parade on Jan 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: "AOL Entertainment"
Source: Entertainment
Published: January 24, 2026 at 08:45AM on Source: RED MAG
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