Wondering where Daniel Kyri’s Darren Ritter was during the latest episode of Chicago Fire? After a season filled with intense rescues, personal hardships, and a serious injury, fans were quick to notice his absence in the April 2, 2025, episode. Although Ritter didn’t appear in Season 13 Episode 17, viewers have reason to believe his return is on the horizon.
Here’s what we know about why Ritter took time off, the challenges he faced this season, and when he will return to Firehouse 51.
Where was Daniel Kyri’s Darren Ritter in Chicago Fire Season 13 Episode 17?
In Chicago Fire Season 13 Episode 17 (“A Beast Like This”), Daniel Kyri’s character, Darren Ritter, was absent from the storyline. Ritter was missing because he most likely had the day off. There was no in-show explanation for his absence, and no scenes featured him during the episode.
Ritter’s absence comes after a highly active season. Earlier in Season 13, he was injured while on duty. Despite the injury, Ritter recovered and returned to duty in subsequent episodes before taking this break.
Daniel Kyri previously told Us Weekly in 2024, “What Ritter brings to the firehouse, his value there, how people see him, how they relate to him, and his value as a firefighter as well, all of those things are thrown into sharp relief [after Ritter got injured].” This underscores the emotional and professional weight his character carries within Firehouse 51.
In addition to the physical challenges, Ritter also faced personal struggles this season. These included a difficult breakup. These storylines deepen his character and may explain why the writers briefly left him out of this episode.
Throughout Season 13, Ritter has worked closely with his best friends Violet Mikami (Hanako Greensmith) and Lyla “Lizzie” Novak (Jocelyn Hudon). They continued to appear in the episode, but Ritter’s absence stood out to fans used to his regular presence.
Ritter will return in upcoming episodes. NBC is currently airing Chicago Fire’s 13th season on Wednesdays at 9/8c, with episodes streaming on Peacock the following day.
