“I Think It’s Time…” — Chicago Fire’s David Eigenberg Confirms Retirement After Final Season, Leaving Fans in Tears
It’s the end of an era in One Chicago history.
After more than a decade of courage, compassion, and countless calls at Firehouse 51, David Eigenberg, the beloved actor behind Christopher Herrmann, has officially confirmed that this season of Chicago Fire will be his last — marking not just his departure from the show, but his retirement from acting altogether.
“It’s the End of the Line for Me”
In an emotional press call, Eigenberg revealed that after over 250 episodes, he’s ready to hang up his turnout gear for good.
“This is the end of the line for me,” he said softly. “It’s been an incredible ride — but it’s time to hang up the gear for good.”
His voice reportedly cracked as he reflected on his journey since joining the original Chicago Fire cast in 2012 alongside Taylor Kinney, Eamonn Walker, and Monica Raymund. What started as a gritty firefighting drama became a legacy — and Herrmann became its heart.
“We started as this little show about firefighters,” he said. “Now we’re part of television history. That’s not just a job anymore. That’s family.”
The Real Reason Behind His Exit
Unlike many high-profile departures, Eigenberg’s decision wasn’t creative — it was personal.
“I’ve loved every minute, but my priorities have changed,” he admitted. “I’ve got a family that’s been so patient for so long. I want to be home for dinner again. I want to see my kids grow up without a call time in the morning.”
It’s a bittersweet echo of Herrmann himself — the loyal father, the hot-headed yet big-hearted firefighter who never forgot what truly mattered.
“Herrmann and I share a lot,” Eigenberg reflected. “We both care too much, we both can be stubborn, but at the end of the day, it’s about love. And right now, I’m choosing family — my real one.”
A Farewell Worthy of a Hero
Sources close to production reveal that the Chicago Fire writers have crafted a deeply emotional sendoff for Herrmann — one that honors both the character and the actor who helped shape the show’s soul.
While plot details are under wraps, insiders tease that Herrmann’s final episode will center on “one last call” — a mission that tests everything he’s stood for since joining Firehouse 51.
“He’s not going out in flames,” a crew member said. “He’s going out with heart.”
Another writer added, “It’s the kind of goodbye that makes you cry not because it’s sad, but because it feels earned.”
The Cast Reacts
News of Eigenberg’s retirement has hit the Chicago Fire family hard.
Miranda Rae Mayo shared a behind-the-scenes photo with the caption:
“Forever my mentor. Forever my Herrmann.”
Taylor Kinney wrote simply,
“No one can fill those boots.”
Fans have also flooded social media with tributes:
“Herrmann is Chicago Fire.”
“David Eigenberg made me believe in kindness in chaos.”
“It’s not just a show — it’s saying goodbye to family.”
The Last of the Originals
Eigenberg’s departure marks the end of an era. With Eamonn Walker scaling back his appearances and Kinney’s schedule often shifting, Herrmann stood as one of the final original pillars of Chicago Fire.
Behind the scenes, cast and crew describe him as a force of warmth and humor — the heartbeat of the firehouse both on and off screen.
“When David’s on set, there’s laughter,” one production assistant said. “When he’s gone, there’s silence.”
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“It’s Time to Live”
When asked whether this marks a full retirement from Hollywood, Eigenberg smiled and gave the most Herrmann-like answer possible.
“I think so,” he said. “I’ve been blessed beyond measure. I don’t need another role to tell me I’ve done enough. It’s time to rest, to breathe, to live.”
But he didn’t rule out the occasional return:
“Never say never,” he laughed. “For now, though, I’m going home — and I’m happy.”
A Legacy That Burns Bright
As Herrmann prepares for his final bow, fans are already bracing for heartbreak — but also gratitude.
The Chicago Fire writers’ room has reportedly packed his farewell with callbacks to the show’s earliest years — from Molly’s Bar to the firehouse kitchen, and even Herrmann’s signature one-liners.
“Herrmann didn’t just fight fires,” one fan wrote. “He lit up every scene he was in.”
And in his final message to viewers, Eigenberg summed it up perfectly:
“This isn’t goodbye. It’s just the end of one chapter — and the start of peace.”
🔥 David Eigenberg, thank you for twelve unforgettable years. Firehouse 51 will never be the same. 🔥