Key Takeaways
- Sam Carver’s exit in Chicago Fire Season 13 highlights the show’s unfair treatment of his character.
- Carver’s departure is tied to yet another tragic storyline, overshadowing his personal growth.
- Unlike other characters, Carver never gets a simple explanation for his absence, always facing dramatic exits.
Why Does Chicago Fire Season 13 Keep Giving Carver Tragic Storylines?

Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 14, titled Bar Time, marks another heartbreaking chapter for Sam Carver (Jake Lockett). Carver, who transferred to Firehouse 51 in Season 11, has endured a series of personal and professional struggles. His latest storyline, centered around his troubled relationship with Tori, has once again pushed him into a downward spiral. The season has repeatedly emphasized his struggles with alcoholism and mental health, culminating in his decision to step away from the firehouse.
Carver’s decision to leave Firehouse 51 comes after being accused by Violet of drinking on the job. Earlier in the episode, he admitted to skipping AA meetings and isolating himself after an intruder claimed to be acting on his behalf. While the story logically justifies his exit, it feels repetitive and needlessly tragic, considering this is the second time in the same season that his alcohol use forces him out.
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Why Does Carver Get Worse Treatment Than Other Chicago Fire Characters?

One of the most frustrating aspects of Carver’s exit is how differently he is treated compared to other characters. Chicago Fire has frequently written off Kidd and Severide for episodes at a time with nothing more than a brief mention of where they are. Yet, whenever Carver leaves, it is through a highly dramatic, life-altering event. This disparity makes his character feel unfairly punished compared to others.
For example, Carver was suspended earlier in Season 13 after an incident with Kidd in Episode 6, and now he is voluntarily leaving for nearly the same reason. If the show needed to rotate its cast for cost-cutting reasons, it could have simply explained Carver’s absence as working at his other job instead of forcing another emotional departure.
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How Do These Storylines Overshadow Carver’s Growth?

Carver has made significant progress since joining Firehouse 51. He has developed strong bonds, opened up about his past, and become a trusted team member. However, the show consistently reduces his character to his alcoholism and struggles, overshadowing his personal growth.
Instead of allowing Carver to have a balanced arc, Chicago Fire continually uses his sobriety struggles as a storytelling crutch. This makes him seem one-dimensional, even though there is much more to his character.
If Chicago Fire wants to keep Carver as a compelling character, it should focus on his strengths, friendships, and contributions to the firehouse, rather than constantly making him a tragic figure.
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Does Carver Die in Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 15?

Speculation is running high that Carver may die in the upcoming Episode 15, titled Too Close. The promo for the episode features Violet crying, which has led many fans to believe that Carver might not survive. Given his recent struggles and exit storyline, this theory seems plausible.
However, other characters could also be at risk. Lieutenant Kidd put herself in danger by jumping in front of a truck to save a civilian, and Dom Pascal’s wife also appears to be in jeopardy. While Carver remains the most likely candidate, Chicago Fire could throw a surprise twist in the episode.
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What Has Happened So Far in Chicago Fire Season 13?
Chicago Fire Season 13 premiered on September 25, 2024, and has been filled with dramatic rescues, personal challenges, and shocking exits. Here are some key highlights:
Episode 14: “Bar Time”
- Carver’s struggles with alcoholism and his decision to leave Firehouse 51 were central to the episode.
- Paramedic Novak encountered her ex-fiancé Scott “Oz” Osbourne, who was on a ride-along as part of his army medic training.
- Multiple emergencies kept Firehouse 51 busy, but Carver’s personal crisis took center stage.
Upcoming Episode 15: “Too Close”
- The promo hints at a possible major character death.
- Violet is seen crying, leading fans to believe Carver could be the one to die.
- Other characters, including Lieutenant Kidd and Dom Pascal’s wife, are also in potential danger.
With Episode 15 on the horizon, fans are left wondering: Is this truly the end for Carver, or is there still hope for redemption?
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