Actor Dermot Mulroney will leave the NBC series "Chicago Fire" early in its 15th season [1].
Mulroney's departure marks a significant shift in the leadership hierarchy of the fictional firehouse as the series enters its next chapter. The exit of a high-ranking character like Chief Dom Pascal often signals a narrative pivot for the ensemble cast.
Mulroney joined the cast in 2024 during Season 13 [1]. Over the course of two seasons [3], he portrayed the authoritative Chief Pascal, becoming a central figure in the show's internal politics. According to reports from sources close to production, the actor will wrap up his storyline shortly after the new season begins [1].
"It's bittersweet to have to leave," Mulroney said [3].
The timing of the exit coincides with the upcoming premiere of Season 15, which is scheduled for Oct. 7, 2026 [2]. While the specific reasons for the departure were not provided, the move follows a pattern of cast rotations common in long-running procedural dramas.
Mulroney is not the only change facing the series. Some reports indicate that at least two main cast members and one major behind-the-scenes figure will exit during the 15th season [2]. Other reports narrow the list of departures to Mulroney and actor Joe Miñoso [2].
The series continues to air on NBC in the U.S. [1]. The production has not yet announced who, if anyone, will replace Chief Pascal's role in the firehouse command structure.
“"It's bittersweet to have to leave."”
The departure of a primary authority figure like Chief Dom Pascal suggests that the writers are preparing for a leadership vacuum or a new conflict within the firehouse. Given the simultaneous exit of other main cast members, Season 15 appears to be a transitional period for the series, potentially resetting the show's dynamic to maintain viewer interest after 14 years on the air.
