The world of Chicago Fire is no stranger to heartbreak, goodbyes, and unexpected departures. But the next episode, titled “Broken Things,” will flip that familiar formula on its head with the surprise return of a character fans never expected to see again: Chief Dom Pascal, played by Dermot Mulroney.

After vanishing from Firehouse 51 amid rumours of budget cuts and departmental restructuring, Pascal’s comeback isn’t a cameo — it’s a storyline that could reshape the future of the Chicago Fire Department itself.

The Mystery Behind Chief Pascal’s DisappearanceWhen Chief Pascal first arrived to replace the beloved Chief Wallace Boden, he faced an uphill battle. His pragmatic, cost-driven approach to leadership clashed with the passion and loyalty that defined Boden’s tenure. Tensions ran high, particularly with Lieutenant Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney), whose loyalty to his crew often put him at odds with bureaucratic authority.

So when Pascal disappeared from the show, fans assumed he’d been written out quietly — another casualty of the CFD’s ongoing financial crisis. But Chicago Fire had other plans. In “Broken Things,” Pascal resurfaces in a shocking new role: as a mentor to Severide.

Severide and Pascal: From Enemies to Allies

Promotional photos and early previews hint that Severide will shadow Pascal for a full day, learning the ins and outs of CFD leadership from a man he once openly distrusted. The partnership suggests a major turning point for both men — and for the future of Firehouse 51.

What This Could Mean for Severide

• A Possible Promotion Arc: Severide has long resisted taking on a command role, preferring to lead from the frontlines of Rescue Squad 3. But Pascal’s mentorship could open the door to a new chapter in his career — one that sees him step up as the next generation of leadership within the CFD.

• Rebuilding Bridges: Their new partnership symbolizes growth. What began as hostility may evolve into mutual respect, with Pascal learning to see beyond the red tape and Severide understanding the difficult decisions required at the top.

• A Political Battle Brews: The duo will reportedly meet with the mayor’s Chief of Staff, Annette Davis, suggesting they’re joining forces to tackle the department’s biggest threat — crippling budget cuts and staffing shortages.