Why did Chief Boden leave Chicago Fire? Details explored

Chief Wallace Boden was an integral part of NBC’s Chicago Fire for 12 years. Played by Eamonn Walker, the character was introduced as the Battalion Chief of Firehouse 51 in the very first season and became a fan-favorite due to his protective nature.

Boden went through various ups and downs during the course of the show but remained dedicated to his job and led his team with conviction. However, in the season 12 finale, the Chief left the team, leaving fans disappointed.

Chief Boden left Chicago Fire in Season 12 as he was promoted to Deputy Fire Commissioner at Chicago Fire Department. During his departure, NBC stated he could still make occasional appearances on the show. However, he has not returned for the 2025 One Chicago crossover episode.

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Chief Boden left Chicago Fire due to his promotion

Chief Wallace Boden left his department in the Chicago Fire season 12 finale to become Deputy Fire Commissioner. He decided to run for the position after seeing a construction foreman make a selfless sacrifice, realizing how important strong leadership is.

Boden then defeated Chief Robinson and earned a well-deserved promotion. However, his departure left his team at Firehouse 51 saddened, and they struggled to accept it. Christopher Herrmann was especially shocked when Boden privately suggested he take over his role.

At first, Herrmann doubted himself, but Boden assured him that he had the heart and leadership skills to guide their firehouse family. The team eventually bid Chief Boden an emotional farewell. Stella Kidd, Kelly Severide, Joe Cruz, and Darren Ritter expressed their gratitude for him and thanked him for his guidance.

Mouch, the firehouse veteran, called him the best leader and friend they could have asked for. Even though Boden tried to keep his exit low-key, the team expressed how much he meant to them.

After Boden left, Firehouse 51 needed a new chief. Though Boden had recommended Herrmann, the position went to Dom Pascal, played by Dermot Mulroney.

Pascal had experience working with the Miami Fire Department and returned to Chicago to take over. Unlike Boden, he had a different leadership style and made some changes that shook up the firehouse.

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Why did Eamonn Walker leave the Chicago Fire?

Actor Eamonn Walker never revealed the reason behind his exit from the show. Meanwhile, Chicago Fire showrunner and executive producer released statements expressing their admiration for the actor, but even they did not disclose the reason behind his departure. Showrunner Andrea Newman told Deadline at the time:

“Eamonn is the most big-hearted, passionate, hard-working and dedicated actor (and human) I know, and he is like a father to every cast member and crew member of this team. He is loved like no other.”

“Any change in his position on Fire is going to be like an earthquake coming through. The vibe on set for the finale was just, hold onto Eamonn as tight as you can. Every minute with him is a gift.”

NBC then revealed that since Chief Boden was promoted and not killed off or died, Walker could return to the show in a recurring capacity in future seasons. However, the actor has yet to make an appearance on the show since his exit.

Fans expected he might come back for the 2025 One Chicago event, which marks the crossover between Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, and Chicago Med. However, the episode aired on January 29, 2025, and once again, did not feature Chief Boden. It remains to be seen if and when the character will return to the series.

Chicago Fire Season 13 airs new episodes on NBC on Wednesdays.