‘Chicago Fire’ Star Joe Miñoso to Leave Series After 15 Seasons - Variety

What the report says

Variety reports that Joe Miñoso, who has portrayed firefighter Joe Cruz on NBC’s “Chicago Fire” since the show began, is set to depart during the upcoming 15th season. Citing a source, the outlet says Miñoso will still appear in several episodes of the new season so the drama can conclude Cruz’s storyline. Deadline was credited by Variety as first reporting the news.

Miñoso was part of the “Chicago Fire” pilot and appeared as a recurring guest in Season 1 before becoming a regular cast member in Season 2. His exit marks another major change for the long-running series: Variety notes he was among the four remaining original cast members, along with Taylor Kinney, David Eigenberg and Christian Stolte.

The departure comes as the series prepares for Season 15, scheduled to premiere Oct. 7. Variety also reports that “BMF” actor Da’Vinchi is joining the show as a new firefighter at Firehouse 51, while Victor Teran takes over as showrunner from Andrea Newman, who held the role through 14 seasons.

Variety’s account places Miñoso’s exit against unresolved Season 14 storylines, including Cruz learning he and his wife are expecting twins after a medical scare, and a finale cliffhanger involving firefighters entering a burning storage facility as the roof appears at risk of collapse. “Chicago Fire” remains part of NBC’s “One Chicago” lineup, airing with “Chicago Med” and “Chicago P.D.”