3 Chicago Fire characters who are being ignored in season 11

Chicago Fire has a deep roster of characters. Anywhere you turn, there is an interesting person who works in the 51 and who’s life can be the subject of a pretty compelling episode. This is why the show has been on the air for over a decade.

The downside, of course, to having such a deep roster is that sometimes characters can get lost in the shuffle. By narrowing the focus to a few crucial players, the show can risk underutilizing ones who are fan favorites.

So, in the interest of championing a few underdogs, here are 3 Fire characters who could use some more attention in season 11.

What happened to Cruz on Chicago Fire?

Cruz (Joe Minoso) had an eventful season 10. He nearly died, lost his nerve on the job, got it back, had a son, and then adopted another son! It was arguably the character’s most action-packed season to date, and it probably has something to do with the decision to put him on the sidelines for most of season 11.

Cruz is still in the mix, for sure, he hasn’t really had a defining episode in season 11. He’s been a side player for the narratives involving Severide (Taylor Kinney) and Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo). It’s possible that he may get a boost with Severide’s absence, given how close he is to the character and the seniority he has within the 51. Our fingers are firmly crossed on this one.

What happened to Ritter on Chicago Fire?

Ritter (Daniel Kyri) is a consummate supporting player on Fire. Sure, he has his spotlight stories, but for the most part, he gives advice to his co-workers and assumes the mantle of charming friend. We’ve seen him do more before, so we know he’s capable of it, and we think the story involving Ritter and the city official he angered earlier in season 11 is a way to do it again.

Watch One Chicago on fuboTV: Watch over 67 live sports and entertainment channels with a 7-day FREE trial!

It would be fun and novel to have people like Blake Gallo (Alberto Rosende) and Violet (Hanako Greensmith) advise Ritter on a situation, since the reverse has been the standard mode for the past couple seasons.

What happened to Boden on Chicago Fire?

Chief Boden (Eamonn Walker) was another guy who had a big season 10. It looked like he was going to be leaving the 51 for a bit there, but he was able to secure a promotion while still working out of the fire house’s office. In terms of kicking off a new chapter of his career, though, season 11 has been surprisingly thin when it comes to fleshing the character out.

It’s easy to note that Severide and Kidd have taken up the bulk of the story time this year, but someone like Boden could have additional screen time that serves both characters, given how well he knows both of them and their work habits. More Boden? Never a bad thing.

For the latest Chicago Fire season 11 spoilers and news, plus more on the entire series, follow the Chicago Fire category at One Chicago Center.