Back in May 2026, each of NBC’s One Chicago dramas locked their respective leads down for contract extensions, keeping Stellaride actors Taylor Kinney and Miranda Rae Mayo going strong into Chicago Fire Season 15. Unfortunately, Severide will no longer be able to rely on firefighter Joe Cruz to help squash any infernos down the line, as OG co-star Joe Minoso is confirmed to be the last cast member exiting the long-running drama after it returns to the 2026 TV schedule.
But don’t panic just yet! (At least, I don’t believe that’s warranted just yet.) Though Cruz was one of several characters trapped in the Season 14 finale cliffhanger, and his fate technically remains a mystery along with others’, it does sound like the character will survive that harrowing experience. Finger crossed he’ll even live long enough to father the twins that Chloe is now pregnant with, despite that life update making it seem like the character could be doomed.
According to Deadline, Joe Minoso isn’t leaving without a proper goodbye, and he’ll appear in several episodes early on in Season 15 to give Cruz a worthwhile exit. Which, technically, could mean that he only survives the explosion’s aftermath long enough to die in a hospital (I think we know which one) after other characters share final moments with him. But let’s choose to stay optimistic that the writers will give the 14-season veteran a more celebratory farewell.
Joe Minoso shared the news with fans himself on Instagram, and the reactions were as dramatic as one might think, considering Cruz has been a core part of Firehouse 51 since Season 1. Here are a few choice comments that make it clear Cruz's death will be detrimental to their lives.
- If he dies im gonna be pissed, I havent even got over otis even though its been years - @faelixyy
- If Joe dies I’m not watching it again. Still not over Brian… - @_becca.barnes
- NOOOOO i swear to god if they kill his character off 😭😭😭 - @corinna_p
- It better be a peaceful departure we don’t need Joe Cruz going out traumatically 😂🙌 - @yayamartinez
- Ahhh heck nah!!! First Atwater is leaving PD now THE Joe Cruz is leaving Fire 😩😩😩 they better not kill you off, at least move to Honduras so Javi can experience where he comes from. I can’t take you dying man 🥺🥺🥺 I’m still not over Otis - @sincerely_ebbi
- Absolutely devastated to hear. And I agree with every single comment here please for the love of God do not kill Joe and let him and Chloe and the kids have a peaceful departure - @keedow28
Now here are the fans reacting with big emotions, but aren't automatically expecting Cruz to bite the bullet.
- EXCUSE TF OUT OF MEEE?? -@iam_abzy
- This can't be real. You're one of my favorite characters. - @kellyskhronicles
- Say it ain’t so Joe!!!! 😢 - @jeannie2321
- We're gonna miss you i know im gonna sob with you leaving after watching for a decade now 😭 - @missviolet_17
- how will I live without seeing Cruz every night???! 😭😭😭 - @maryrowellofficial
Chicago P.D. star Marina Squerciati also entered the chat to send some positive vibes Minoso's way, along with Chicago Fire's recast caption fromt the pilot, the great Merle Dandridge, and former recurring co-star Mo Gallini.
- Marina Squerciati: I can not wait to see what you build next; you're killing it as a filmmaker. The world is ready!!!
- Merle Dandridge: Standing O, Joe!❤️👏🏽
- Mo Gallini: Nice run my brother! Best to you on your next chapter!
Beyond Joe Minoso's untimely exit, Chicago Fire Season 15 will also feature a new showrunner at the helm, with Victor Teran replacing outgoing boss Andrea Newman. The drama will also be welcoming in a new firefighter portrayed by BMF star Da'Vinchi.
Seems like a good time to start reflecting on Joe Cruz's best moments from the show. All 14 seasons of Chicago Fire can be streamed in their entirety via Peacock subscription.
