As fans process the departure of two main characters,Chicago Firehas announced the casting of a new series regular ahead of season 14. Fans were shocked to learn just before season’s end that theChicago Firecastwould be losing two prominent members. Even more shocking, theChicago Fireseason 13 finaledid little to set up their exits.
Now, at least one spot in theChicago Fireseason 14roster has been filled. As reported byVariety,Brandon Larracuente will join Firehouse 51 next season as a series regular. The actor most recently appeared in Dick Wolf’sOn Callon Prime. Fans may also recognize his work on series such as13 Reasons WhyandThe Good Doctor.
What Brandon Larracuente’s Casting Means For Chicago Fire
The Series Can Now Better Explain Its Cast Departures
While it’s sad thatCarver and Ritter are leavingChicago Fire, Brandon Larracuente is the perfect addition to this type of network procedural.Almost all of Larracuente’s work has showcased abilities that will prove useful as aOne Chicagoactor, not the least of which is his experience playing a first responder inOn Call.
Larracuente plays a rookie inOn Call, as well as a resident inThe Good Doctor. Depending on the direction his story takes inChicago Fire,the actor’s experience playing newbies in high-stress professional roles could prove extremely relevant. But regardless of his new character’s professional expertise, Larracuente should have the emotional side of his role thoroughly covered.
Interpersonal drama is a core component of theOne Chicagouniverse, and Larracuente has had to tackle several dark topics in his past works.The Good Doctor’s Danny Perez andChicago Fire’s Sam Carver both have histories of addiction, making Larracuente a particularly intriguing replacement choice. And that’s arguably not the most emotional series Larracuente’s worked on.
Sam Carver’sChicago Fireexitcould lose impact if the series replaced him with another addict, butLarracuente also has experience with deep emotional storylines inParty of Fiveand13 Reasons Why. His episode count inChicago Fireshould be significantly higher, giving him a great opportunity to flex his talent.
Our Take On Brandon Larracuente’s Casting In Chicago Fire
He Shouldn’t Be Treated Too Much Like A Replacement
It remains uncertainhowChicago Fire’s season 14 exits might happen, but Larracuente’s new character could help to establish that bridge.His arrival at Firehouse 51 could lead into an explanation as to which character he’s specifically replacing, explaining why they left in the same scene. It’s just important to respectCarver and Violet’sChicago Fireromancein the process.
That specific issue won’t arise if Brandon Larracuente’s character is meant to replace Ritter instead of Carver, but it’s important either way not to make it feel as if he’s merely stepping into another character’s shoes. For the sake ofChicago Firefans, care must be taken to ensure Larracuente feels like a true addition, rather than a mere substitute.
Chicago Fire
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Chicago Fire follows the lives of firefighters, rescue squad members, and paramedics of Firehouse 51 in Chicago as they face professional and personal challenges, showcasing their dedication, teamwork, and resilience.
