Chicago Fire Plans for Cruz’s Future at Firehouse 51

WHO:

Screen Rant - Joe Minoso portrays Joe Cruz in *Chicago Fire*.

Screen Rant - A member of the existing Firehouse 51 crew was identified as Cruz’s replacement; the article excerpt does not name that person.

US Magazine - Showrunner Victor Teran said there is “always that possibility” Joe Minoso, 48, could return as Joe Cruz.

WHAT:

Screen Rant - *Chicago Fire* plans to replace Joe Cruz at Firehouse 51, and the latest episode revealed that his replacement is already part of the crew.

US Magazine - Minoso is exiting the series as Joe Cruz after the character suffers a career-ending injury; Teran said a return remains possible.

WHERE:

Screen Rant - The replacement is part of Firehouse 51.

WHEN:

Screen Rant - Minoso’s departure is planned for season 15.

WHY:

US Magazine - Cruz’s exit follows a career-ending injury.

HOW:

US Magazine - Teran discussed the possibility of Minoso returning in an exclusive interview with *Us*.

(UPDATED October 22, 2026 14:11 UTC)

Joe Minoso is leaving *Chicago Fire* as Joe Cruz, whose career-ending injury sets up the character’s exit in season 15. The show has already revealed that Cruz’s replacement is among the existing crew at Firehouse 51, though the person’s identity has not been specified. That means the replacement won’t be a newcomer to the firehouse. Minoso has portrayed Cruz throughout the series, and his departure marks a change for the Firehouse 51 team. Showrunner Victor Teran says a return for Minoso remains possible, describing it as “always that possibility.” Teran’s comment leaves the door open for Cruz to come back, even as the series plans to move ahead with a new firefighter in his place. The exit follows the injury that ends Cruz’s career, while the replacement is already part of the crew.