The heart-stopping cliffhanger from the end of Fire Country Season 3 had fans on the edge of their seats. The fire consumed the building, Vince Leone, his father Walter and his wife Sharon were stuck in there, leaving their fates hanging in the balance.
This chilling moment has fueled notable speculation regarding the eventual leadership of Station 42, particularly given that reports claim that actor Billy Burke, the man who portrays Vince, is leaving the Emmy-winning CBS series. Well, if this comes to pass, who would end up playing as the new head?
If you believe I'm going to use Bode Leone's name, that's incorrect. Why? Bode's rash personality and continued personal demons call his fitness to carry such a responsible title into question.
Instead, the focus shifts to Jake Crawford, one of the firefighters whose commitment and leadership have been a constant throughout the series. I believe Jake's personal and professional development in the show makes him a perfect candidate to step into Vince's shoes.
As seen in the third season, Vince made it clear that Jake won't get a promotion any time soon at Station 42, but if Burke actually leaves Fire Country, then someone will have to take charge. At the same time, Jake is the only firefighter who's eagerly willing to move up the ladder.
Keep reading to learn more about Jake and his possibility of becoming a new chief.
Jake could be the natural successor of Vince in Fire Country
Since the beginning of Fire Country Season 3, Jake has proven to be a resilient and one of the most committed firefighters at Station 42. His journey began as a less important figure in the story, but he gradually developed leadership qualities that set him apart.
Jake not only remains calm under high-stakes rescue missions and pressure at work, but also excels at making strategic decisions. As seen in the Season 3 finale, Audrey and Jake found out that Finn is a crazy and obsessive man.
He knew that Gabriela was with Finn inside the ambulance, so he wasted no time and immediately called Vince to follow them. This way, he helped save Gabby as she was being threatened again by her stalker.
Jake has also faced personal challenges like the loss of his relationship with Riley and the complexities of his friendship with Bode. As he slept with Gabby in Fire Country Season 3, Jake was worried that it might ruin his friendship with Bode.
He was concerned because they aren't just firefighters at the station, but have a strong brotherly bond. Despite these hurdles, Jake has maintained his professionalism and dedication to the job.
Additionally, Jake's working relationship with Vince has been one of respect and mentorship. Vince's recognition of Jake's potential and the confidence he has in him further establishes Jake's position as a leader.
If Billy Burke leaves Fire Country, Vince's position would be vacant. So, I believe Jake will prove to be a worthy and capable chief of Station 42 in Season 4.
Also Read: Fire Country Season 4: Renewal status, potential release window, and everything we know so far
Bode is not yet ready to take on his father's position in Fire Country

While Bode Leone's journey has been the central plot in Fire Country, he's still not ready to become a chief. This isn't just because of his emotional volatility, but also how he ends up acting in different situations, especially when it comes to someone he loves.
During one of the rescue missions in Fire Country Season 3, Bide didn't follow his mother's instructions as he was too busy making things right all by himself. Being a team, he needs to learn how to make calculated decisions and tackle emergencies with composure.
Considering the Season 3 finale, Jake has again been broken after watching Audrey in trouble, followed by his entire family's life at risk. So, he still needs to master his skills to rise through the ranks at the fire station.
Also Read: Gabrielaβs exit is heartbreaking, but I believe it was high time for her to leave Fire Country
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