The original Chicago Fire characters aren't getting any younger. This is especially the case with Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg), who was introduced as one of Firehouse 51's veterans in season 1. The character has been through a lot over the years, and the show has flirted with the idea of transitioning him out of the role he's held down for over a decade.
Well, there's no better person to address Herrmann's future than the man who plays him. David Eigenberg sat down for a chat with TV Line in which he talked about Herrmann's future. He confirmed that the 51 veteran will attempt to take the captain exam during the fall finale on November 20. The outcome of this exam will determine whether the character stays at 51 or goes elsewhere.
David Eigenberg teases a big decision for Herrmann
It's a huge decision, and one that's not lost on David Eigenberg. He admitted to the outlet that his character will struggle between his desire to advance his career, and potentially help save more lives, and his desire to stay at 51 with the friends he's accrued over the years:
"That’s a hard thing to do to worry about being responsible for people and also stepping away from the old life."
Eigenberg did not tip his hand in either direction in terms of what will become of Herrmann, but he did hint at major changes for other Chicago Fire characters. He told TV Line that Mouch (Christian Stolte) is also gearing up a "huge life change." Then there's Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney), who is still gaining his footing in 51 but could technically be on the chopping block if Herrmann passes his exam and is deemed a better fit for the station's chief position.
Chief Dom Pascal's position may be in jeopardy
There's been a lot of time dedicated to fleshing Pascal's character out in season 13, but One Chicago has proven that it's willing to send a character packing at the drop of a dime if it benefits the greater narrative. Eigenberg played it close to the chest when asked about Pascal's future.
He did, however, concede that Pascal has been a great addition to the cast. He admits a reluctance to replace him, even if it means Herrmann gets to stick around. "I honestly don’t know what they’re going to do, and I can say that I don’t want him to go," Eigenberg admitted.
All these questions heading into the fall finale mean that fans will be in for an absolute treat. Season 13 has been entertaining for the most part, but there has not been too many major developments with regards to character's careers and futures. We're ready to see the boat get rocked before the Thanksgiving break. Are you?