A Bittersweet Goodbye with a Hidden Opportunity

The end of Chicago Fire Season 13 was emotional. Fans said goodbye to Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri), a character loved for his courage, loyalty, and heart. His departure felt heavy, but it stood out from the usual One Chicago farewells. Ritter didn’t die in a fiery blaze or retire with finality. Instead, he chose a new path.

That decision changed everything. Unlike past character exits that shut doors, Ritter’s story left one wide open. The way his arc was written gave both fans and the actor himself hope for a return. And not just a cameo, but a full-scale crossover that could reshape the One Chicago universe.

Daniel Kyri’s Vision for Ritter’s Future

Daniel Kyri has been clear about his connection to Ritter. He loves the role, he loves the show, and he loves the audience. But he has also made it known that he wants more for the character. He doesn’t see Ritter’s exit as the end. Instead, he sees it as a transition.

In interviews, Kyri has hinted at an exciting future. He’s spoken about the chance for Ritter to grow beyond firefighting, to show new sides of his personality, and to remain part of the universe in a fresh way. The actor has even floated the idea of a move to Chicago P.D. And thanks to how Season 13 ended, that hope feels more real than ever.

How Season 13 Built the Blueprint

The finale crafted Ritter’s exit with purpose. He wasn’t pushed out. He wasn’t broken. He made a choice. Dissatisfied with where he was, Ritter wanted something more. That choice laid the perfect groundwork for a crossover.

This wasn’t an accident. The writers highlighted Ritter’s intelligence and his strong moral compass. He wasn’t just a dependable firefighter. He was thoughtful, quick on his feet, and always guided by a sense of justice. Those qualities fit seamlessly with the world of Chicago P.D.

Imagine Ritter as an intelligence analyst, a community liaison, or even a detective-in-training. His firefighting background gives him a unique perspective on Chicago’s people and neighborhoods. His compassion could bring a refreshing dynamic to the often hard-edged Intelligence Unit.

Why Ritter on Chicago P.D. Makes Perfect Sense

The One Chicago franchise thrives on crossovers. Characters have switched shows before, creating fresh stories while keeping fan favorites alive. A move like this would be both exciting and logical.

For Chicago Fire, Ritter’s return in a new role would show respect for long-time viewers. It would also prove that goodbyes don’t have to mean endings. Ritter’s arc could inspire fans who have followed his journey from nervous rookie to a man chasing purpose.

For Chicago P.D., adding Ritter would shake up the unit in the best way. His warmth and humanity would contrast with the sometimes brutal approach of the detectives. He could be the emotional core the team needs, offering empathy in cases where others see only crime and punishment.

The Time Is Right for a Bold Move

The pieces are already in place. Ritter’s open-ended exit provides the perfect narrative springboard. Daniel Kyri has made his wishes known. The franchise has a history of moving characters across shows successfully. All that remains is for the producers to take the leap.

Fans should view Season 13’s finale not as Ritter’s ending, but as the start of his next chapter. A chapter that could bring him back to Chicago—this time with a badge instead of turnout gear.

What Fans Can Expect Next

If Ritter does cross into Chicago P.D., it won’t just be fan service. It will deepen both shows. It will honor his growth, Daniel Kyri’s commitment, and the franchise’s reputation for bold, interconnected storytelling.

Season 14 is the perfect time to make it happen. The groundwork has been laid. The actor is ready. The fans are waiting. And Ritter’s story is far from finished.