What happened to Greg Grainger in Chicago Fire? Details explored

Chicago Fire, currently in its 13th season, has often introduced guest stars who have lasted for a season before their arc was completed. These stars not only add value and intrigue to the existing storyline but also often end up becoming fan favorites.

One such Chicago Fire guest star was Lieutenant Greg Grainger, played by Jon-Michael Ecker. He was introduced in season 9, and despite appearing only for one season, his character quickly struck a chord with the fans, and owing to how popular the character became only in a season, Derek Haas, the showrunner, mentioned to TV Line,

“I really like him. I would definitely want to see him again.”

However, Grainger’s character did not return to Chicago Fire post season 9. Despite that, his popularity still remains the same. Let us now explore his character in detail, including how he influenced the storyline.

Greg Grainger was introduced in Chicago Fire Season 9 Episode 4

Greg Grainger was a guest character in Chicago Fire Season 9/(Image via NBC)

Fans first saw the character of Greg Grainger in Chicago Fire Season 9 Episode 4 titled Funny What Things Remind Us. While his entry was primarily as the love interest of Brett (Kara Killmer), that relationship was not destined to go anywhere because of Brett’s history with Casey.

Grainger was actually a lieutenant and firefighter in Engine 40 in the Chicago Fire. He was brought temporarily to Engine 51 as Herrmann went on vacation. While it was clear from the beginning that Brett and his relationship would fizzle out in a while, what was unexpected was the love and popularity that the character got from the fans in that short period of time.

Grainger and Brett parted their ways in episode 13, titled Don’t Hang Up, and that was the last episode that featured his character.

Who played Greg Grainger in Chicago Fire?

Jon-Michael Ecker played the role of Greg Grainger in Chicago Fire. He is an American actor who is well known for projects like Popland!, Gossip Girl: Acapulco, Cantinflas, Queen of the South, etc.

He also stars in the new Fox drama Doc, which premiered on January 7, 2025. Regarding his role in this new medical drama, Ecker said,

"I really want everything to go well. As an actor, you put your faith in the production and the creatives behind it and hope that it will strike a chord with the audience".

It now remains to be seen if Ecker will be able to strike the same chord with the audience as a doctor that he did as a firefighter.

What is Chicago Fire about?

Chicago Fire premiered in 2012 and is one of the most popular shows of the Chicago universe. Currently in its 13th season, the show is created by Michael Brandt and Derek Haas and follows the fictional Firehouse 51 and the personal and professional lives of the rescue personnel, firefighters, and paramedics of the department.

Chicago Fire can be streamed on NBC.