Chicago Fire spoilers: 51’s new lieutenant finally named (and it’s not who you expect)
Chicago Fire has finally aired its mid-season finale, and it didn’t disappoint. In addition to providing some nice holiday-themed action, the episode came down on who the 51’s new lieutenant will be, after weeks of speculation and clues.
It was widely accepted that the two firefighters gunning for the lieutenant spot were Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) and newcomer Jason Pelham (Brett Dalton). The former knows the 51 squad like the back of her hand, but the latter has proven himself to be a worthy leader during his brief time as interim lieutenant.
Both candidates had their setbacks, however. Kidd has been aloof about the position ever since she left to promote her Girls on Fire program. Pelham, meanwhile, has a somewhat dubious past that involves attacking a commanding officer. It was anyone’s guess as to who would prevail. Be warned that detailed spoilers are ahead!
Who is the new lieutenant on Chicago Fire?
Early on in the mid-season finale, titled “Winterfest”, Chief Boden (Eamonn Walker) warned Severide (Taylor Kinney) that Kidd would be passed over for the job if she wasn’t more communicative about her time management and when she would return.
Severide takes the warning to heart and tries to contact Kidd several times, but she doesn’t respond to his messages. Boden’s ultimatum about Kidd having to respond by the end of their current work shift comes and goes with no change.
Because of Kidd’s failing, Boden decides to name Pelham the 51’s new lieutenant.
Boden calls the selfless firefighter into his office and commends him on the work he’s done during his brief stint. Pelham is visibly taken aback by the offer, as he’d spent the last few years bouncing around various stations, and thanks the chief.
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The reasons for Kidd’s disappearing act remain vague, both to Boden and to Severide. Given how intensely she wanted the lieutenant job during season 9, it’s jarring to see her haphazardly hurt her own chances for promotion. There’s definitely more story to delve into here.
Pelham’s start at the 51 may have been bumpy, especially given his less-than-stellar reputation, but he’s quickly acclimated to the squad and proven himself to be a worthy member. He’s gelling better with Severide and the veteran team members, and has repeatedly shown that he’s willing to put his life on the line to save civilians.
It’ll be interesting to see whether Pelham holds down the position indefinitely, or if Kidd’s return to the 51 causes some second-guessing on the part of Chief Boden. Either way, Pelham can relax (for now) knowing that he’s closing out 2021 as an official 51 lieutenant.
Next. Where is Stella Kidd on Chicago Fire?. dark
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