It was a hard day for One Chicago fans when news broke that Jake Lockett would not be returning to reprise his role as Sam Carver in Chicago Fire season 14. The talented actor had joined the hit procedural drama in its eleventh season, quickly becoming a fan favorite for his portrayal of the dedicated firefighter struggling with sobriety at Firehouse 51.
Besides Carver's sobriety journey, his will-they-won't-they romance with paramedic in charge, Violet Mikami, was also something that many fans were invested in. That's why learning that Carver would not be appearing in the fourteenth season was such a huge blow. His exit storyline was set up perfectly in the season 13 finale.
After realizing he needed a fresh start to maintain his sobriety, Carver put in an application for a firefighter position in Denver. He tells this to Violet, who is heartbroken but supportive, understanding that his well-being must come first. Their farewell was emotional, with Carver confessing his love to Violet and she responded back in the same way. They then sealed their bittersweet parting with a passionate kiss, leaving fans both heartbroken and hopeful for what comes next for Violet in season 14.
Why did Jake Lockett leave Chicago Fire after season 13?
So, why exactly did Lockett leave Chicago Fire? Was it his decision? Well, we'll start off by saying that Lockett did not leave the procedural drama because he wanted to. There wasn't another job opportunity, scheduling conflicts, or something like that. According to Deadline, his exit was believed to be primarily driven by budget cuts.
The news outlet reported back in April 2025 that it had learned from insiders that NBC was in the process of trying to reduce costs across some of its shows, including Chicago Fire and other series in the One Chicago franchise. It's believed that Lockett's departure was part of this effort to trim expenses. Unfortunately, it's believed that Chicago Fire star Daniel Kyri was also affected by these cost-cutting measures. While Kyri will appear in the fourteenth season, it will only be for a "limited time."
What happened to Carver in the Chicago Fire season 14 premiere?
But did Carver really end up going through with the move to Denver? Did he get the position at the Denver Fire Department? The Chicago Fire season 14 premiere answers these burning questions. After that kiss Carver and Violet shared in the season 13 finale, it wouldn't have been surprising if Carver decided to change his mind and reconsider his move. But at the same time, it would've been best if he stuck to his guns, focusing on his sobriety and personal growth, even if it means putting some distance between himself and Violet for the time being.
Carver ultimately does follow through with the move and accepts the job in Denver. In the season 14 premiere, Violet brings him up in a conversation with Novak and Ritter in the Firehouse 51 break room. When Novak asks if she’s heard from Carver since he left, Violet admits she hasn’t. She explains that the two agreed to give each other the space they need to move on with their lives.
While Novak and Ritter exchange sympathetic looks, Violet reassures them that she’s fine. She adds that she’s simply grateful they were able to share their true feelings with one another, something not everyone gets the chance to do. That's the only time Carver is mentioned in the season 14 premiere.
New episodes of Chicago Fire season 14 air every Wednesday night at 9/8c.