Firehouse 51 has seen its fair share of goodbyes, with beloved characters leaving their mark on fans’ hearts. However, the departure of Darren Ritter, played by Daniel Kyri, resonates particularly deeply. As he embarks on a new chapter outside the Windy City, fans of Chicago Fire are left reflecting on his journey and impact.
In the Season 13 premiere, viewers discovered that Ritter had rekindled his relationship with his ex-boyfriend, Dwayne, who had relocated to New York City. This moment of happiness quickly turned sour when Mouch shared alarming news: Dwayne had been shot and was undergoing surgery. Without hesitation, Ritter packed his things and flew to New York to support Dwayne during this critical time.
Ritter returned to Chicago in Season 14’s “Primary Search” after Dwayne’s recovery, but his heart remained heavy as he faced uncertainty about his future at Firehouse 51. Here’s what unfolded:
Why Darren Ritter Left Firehouse 51
During his visit to Firehouse 51, Ritter made the heartfelt decision to leave and start anew in New York City with Dwayne. In the October 8 episode, his closest friends, paramedics Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) and Lizzie Novak (Jocelyn Hudon), celebrated the news of Dwayne’s successful surgery while also expressing concern over Ritter’s absence, given the recent losses Firehouse 51 had faced.
While savoring wine at an apartment gathering, Ritter disclosed the awkwardness he felt meeting Dwayne’s family in the hospital. He blamed himself for Dwayne’s shooting, lamenting that if he had moved in with him in Chicago, perhaps it wouldn’t have happened. Violet stepped in, urging Ritter to recognize that the shooting wasn’t his fault and not to push Dwayne away. “New York is not that far away,” she reassured him.
After much deliberation, Ritter reached out to Dwayne. Their conversation rekindled their bond, leading Ritter to enthusiastically announce, “I am flying back to New York right after shift.” He revealed his plans to take some time off but reassured his colleagues that he wasn’t quitting—the doors were still open for a possible return.
Darren Ritter’s Heartwarming Goodbye with His Firehouse 51 Friends
As the time came for Ritter to depart, the emotional reality of his decision set in. While Violet felt devastated about losing her dear friend, she respected Ritter’s choice to prioritize his happiness. As he navigated the exit with suitcases in tow, Lizzie and Violet surprised him with a ride to the airport.
“I know it’s only for a few months,” Lizzie started, her voice tinged with emotion.
“We’ll see what happens,” Ritter replied, struck by the bittersweet nature of their goodbye.
“But we are coming to visit you,” Lizzie promised, and Violet nodded in agreement. With a reassuring grin, Ritter responded, “You better.”
Daniel Kyri’s Emotional Farewell to Ritter
In August 2025, Daniel Kyri shared an emotional farewell on Instagram, revealing his departure from Chicago Fire after seven remarkable years. His heartfelt message to fans and the cast reflected on the profound impact of portraying Darren Ritter.
“While I know I may never find another cast and crew as amazing as this one, I intend to carry what I’ve learned from you to every set in the future,” Kyri expressed. He emphasized how his role had transformed him, stating, “Darren Ritter… embodies empathy, humility, compassion, and unwavering bravery.” Kyri celebrated the representation that Ritter provided—a proud, gay Black firefighter—and the legacy this character built on screen.
“I am so humbled & proud to have portrayed you,” he concluded, reminding fans of the importance of representation and the emotional resonance of his character’s journey.
Catch all the latest episodes of Chicago Fire on Wednesdays at 9/8c on NBC or stream them the following day on Peacock.