Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman has revealed when to expect former Chief Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker) to return, explaining when he’ll be shown next. Season 12 of the firehouse drama ended with the seasoned Firehouse 51 Chief making a difficult decision to run for Deputy Commissioner, knowing his leadership would benefit the entire department. However, this resulted in him having to give up his place among the main crew, with Walker exiting Chicago Fire as a series regular going into season 13. However, it wasn’t clear if that meant he wouldn’t show up in future episodes.
Speaking with TV Insider, however, Newman teased Boden’s Chicago Fire return, confirming he will be shown again following his exit as a series regular in season 12. However, the showrunner did say he won’t be seen right away, meaning his new position as Deputy Commissioner won’t be explored in the first episodes of the upcoming season 13. Check out what Newman had to say below:
We have a mantra. We say once a part of 51, always a part of 51. That’s particularly true for Boden because he’s still in the CFD. So yes, we do plan on seeing him, although not right off the bat.
What Boden’s Return Means For Chicago Fire Season 13
The Former Chief Could Have A Short Storyline
Boden has been on the procedural drama since season 1, his presence a continuous and familiar part of the show despite the revolving door of new and departing cast members throughout the years. His return in Chicago Fire season 13 implies there may be a storyline surrounding his new role as Deputy Commissioner, something that could put him in the same room as his former Firehouse 51 friends. However, it’s unlikely he’ll be around for many episodes, as Dermot Mulroney has been cast as Dom Pascal, the new Chief of his former Firehouse.
With Boden coming back to the series in a recurring role, the show is likely to offer more insight into how his leadership position has impacted firefighting within the Chicago Fire Department. Given how important his leaving the core cast was, the show will likely focus on all the positive elements he brings to various firehouses across the city. While his return may not feature him fighting any fires with his prior crew, it could highlight the important attributes of his new position and how it impacts his friends despite his on-screen absence.
Our Take On Boden’s Return In Chicago Fire Season 13
His Story Deserves To Be Continued
While Boden’s replacement in Chicago Fire season 13 will allow for new dynamics across the team, we’re glad to hear the former Chief will still be around during the upcoming episodes. While his constant presence will be missed, getting to see how his new job is impacting him and firefighting across Chicago presents a positive direction for his character. Although it’s unclear how big his recurring role will be, seeing him in his new position will be satisfying to watch.
