
Dermot Mulroney Reflects on 'Chicago Fire' Departure

By Ta-Nehisi Coates


By Ta-Nehisi Coates
Dermot Mulroney, a familiar face from the hit series "Chicago Fire," recently shared his feelings about concluding his tenure on the show. Having portrayed Chief Dom Pascal for two memorable seasons, Mulroney acknowledged the bittersweet nature of his departure, emphasizing the rewarding challenges and strong camaraderie he experienced during his time with the production. His exit, alongside fellow cast member Joe Miñoso, signals a new chapter for the long-running drama.
In a candid interview during the Flash Weekend Chicago Horror Convention, which took place in early August 2026, Dermot Mulroney expressed his profound emotions regarding his departure from NBC's acclaimed series, "Chicago Fire." The news of his exit, which broke on a Friday, revealed that his character, Chief Dom Pascal, would be written off early in the upcoming 15th season, set to premiere on October 7th. Mulroney fondly recalled every moment spent on set, cherishing the friendships forged with the dedicated crew and praising the supportive atmosphere created by his fellow cast members. He highlighted the intricate and demanding storylines he was given, which he embraced as an actor, stating, "We gave it our all for two seasons." The actor also shared a touching anecdote about fans approaching him, often requesting autographs for "Chief Pascal" for their loved ones, underscoring the character's impact. Mulroney's exit follows closely on the heels of original cast member Joe Miñoso's announced departure, as his character, firefighter Joe Cruz, is also slated to be written out in Season 15.
Mulroney's reflections offer a glimpse into the professional and personal connections forged within the television industry. His remarks resonate with anyone who has had to leave a fulfilling role or a close-knit team, underscoring the emotional investment that goes into creative endeavors. The challenge of portraying a complex character and the support received from colleagues are aspects that can profoundly shape an artist's journey. Furthermore, the audience's connection to fictional characters, even when distinct from an actor's other works, highlights the powerful influence of storytelling and the enduring legacy a role can create.
About the author

Author and journalist whose work on culture, race, and history includes writing for Marvel's "Black Panther."

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