Chicago Fire announces new 51 chief (and it's NOT Herrmann)

Consider us surprised. Chicago Fire made a big point out of Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker) leaving Firehouse 51, and handing the position of chief to his longtime friend, Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg). It was unexpected, yet made complete sense, like any good plot twist.

Then, another twist undid it. On June 17, Deadline announced that Herrmann would not be taking over 51, and the position of chief will be handed off to a brand new character. This new character will be named Dom Pascal, and he will be introduced in season 13.

Chicago Fire's chief will be Dom Pascal

The casting of the Pascal character is ongoing, but the outlet did provide some information on him and what fans can expect when he walks through the doors at 51. Pascal is a cheerful guy who works "well under pressure," and who takes a different approach than his precedessor, Boden.

Pascal has spent the last decade as a fire chief in Miami, and is currently estranged from his wife (which is something that will almost certainly serve as a plot point in season 13). It's exciting to have a new character in the mix, undoubtedly, but there are fans who may be curious as to why Herrmann was booted from the position.

Well, unfortunately, we will have to wait for the season 13 premiere to find out. Deadline cited sources close to the production of Chicago Fire, but unfortunately, the explanation as to why Herrmann's offer was rescinded remains "unknown."

Herrmann's status within 51 is "unknown"

The fact that Herrmann won't be moving up could lead to an interesting dynamic between him and the new guy. There could easily be resentment, or a general reluctance to get close to Pascal, given his bond with Boden.

It's also worth noting that Herrmann's health has been compromised in recent years. His hearing was permanently damaged during the season 12 premiere, and he now has to rely on a hearing aid in the field.

This has easily been the most interesting tidbit to come out about the upcoming season of Fire, and we look forward to learning more about Pascal and Herrmann's futures, respectively.