Chicago Fire Loses Original Cast Member Ahead of Season 15

As Season 15 of 'Chicago Fire' approaches, fans will have to say goodbye to a long-time character. Read on to find out who it is.

As fans eagerly anticipate the debut of Season 15 of Chicago Fire on NBC in October 2026, they will soon have to bid farewell to a long-standing character from the series.

According to Deadline, actor Joe Minoso, who has portrayed firefighter Joe Cruz since the very first season, will be departing the show. Initially introduced as a supporting character, Minoso became a main cast member starting in Season 2.

Details surrounding Cruz's final appearance remain under wraps, but it has been confirmed that he will appear in a handful of episodes before his exit. This marks another significant loss for Chicago Fire, as only Taylor Kinney (Kelly Severide), David Eigenberg (Christopher Herrmann), and Christian Stolte (Randall 'Mouch' McHolland) remain from the original cast.

While Universal TV continues to air Season 14 every Monday, fans can look forward to the premiere of Season 15 on October 7, 2026, on NBC.