Why Jack Damon Actor Michael Bradway Left Chicago Fire

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Over the last several seasons, “Chicago Fire” has struggled to keep its cast intact, and unfortunately, another actor is leaving. Specifically, Michael Bradway, known for portraying Jack Damon on the show, has confirmed that he will be departing the series before Season 14 begins.

I, being Bradway, am bidding farewell to this show as I’ve landed a role in “Every Year After,” an upcoming series on Prime Video based on Carly Fortune’s beloved Barry’s Bay books. In this new adventure, I’ll be portraying Charlie, the younger brother of Sam (Matt Cornett). If you’re familiar with Fortune’s work, you know that Sam’s romance with Percy (Sadie Soverall) forms the heart of the first book. However, it’s my character, Charlie, who finds love in Fortune’s latest novel, “One Golden Summer.

Although Chicago Fire may welcome Bradway back as a guest star in Season 14, this news doesn’t alleviate the significant void left by the show. Since Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer) left at the end of Season 12, the series has struggled to find an attractive male firefighter who could fill the role of the new romantic lead. With Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) being married happily to Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo), there are few single characters remaining. The departure of Bradway is a significant hit for Chicago Fire, and it’s not the only actor who will be leaving the drama during Season 14.

Much of Season 13 was about Jack Damon

In Season 12 of “Chicago Fire,” the character Jack Damon was introduced. Initially, he appears enigmatic and untrustworthy, with a clear intention regarding Kelly. However, as the season progressed, it was revealed that this seemingly negative attitude stemmed from a surprising connection: Jack is Kelly’s half-brother, born to their late father, Benny (played by Treat Williams). This shocking revelation unfolded during the Season 12 finale.

To start off, it creates challenges for both Kelly and Jack, as Kelly now holds a leadership role at the firehouse and Jack is a fresh recruit who tends to make a string of clumsy and inappropriate decisions during different tasks. These choices, in turn, negatively impact not only Jack but also Kelly and Stella, with whom Damon operates a truck together.

Despite an unfortunate accident that injures Jack, the brothers eventually form a bond and reach an understanding. They end up in a positive state by Season 13, with Damon even starting a relationship with newcomer Lyla Novak (Jocelyn Hudon). However, it seems that their romance — similar to many new characters’ storylines on “Chicago Fire” — may not fully blossom.

Chicago Fire has had some major cast departures lately

Michael Bradway’s choice not to extend his agreement for the show has added yet another casting challenge that “Chicago Fire” has faced during the last few seasons.

In some cases, characters like Jake Lockett as Sam Carver and Daniel Kyri portraying Darren Ritter are written off the show due to storyline requirements in Season 14. Similarly, Alberto Rosende and Rome Flynn were also written out during Season 13 for similar reasons. On the other hand, departures such as Kara Killmer’s and Eamonn Walker’s were the actors’ decisions, as they wished to pursue new roles separately.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but feel excited about the prospect of some newcomers gracing our screens in “Chicago Fire” Season 14! Brandon Larracuente is one such talent who will be joining the cast, though the specifics of his role remain a mystery for now. Here’s hoping he manages to captivate us with his performance and leave a lasting impact on viewers like myself.

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2025-07-23 04:00