A few Chicago Fire stars are set to exit the series, and one of them recently finished filming their last scene, resulting in a heartfelt goodbye. Over the years, several Chicago Fire characters have come and gone. The cast makeup certainly doesn’t look the same as it did 13 years ago, and it’s about to change some more in season 14.

Daniel Kyri, who has starred as Darren Ritter in the original One Chicago TV show for an impressive seven years and eight seasons, has officially left Chicago Fire. The actor took to Instagram to reflect on his time on the NBC procedural drama and give thanks to his co-stars, representatives, fans, and the writers. Check out some of Kyri’s musings below:

Yesterday, I filmed my last scenes as Ritter & I’m still so amazed that my first-ever TV gig—a role that was originally meant for just three episodes—turned into seven incredible years (SEVEN?!?!! Whatttt???!) and spanned eight seasons of this iconic show! While I know I may never find another cast and crew as amazing as this one, I intend to carry what I’ve learned from you to every set in the future.

Chicago Fire changed my life. Bringing Darren Ritter to the screen has transformed & healed me in equal measure. He is a man who embodies empathy, humility, compassion, and unwavering bravery to save lives. His heroism is further fortified by the way he navigates the world—a gay Black firefighter who is proud, fierce, loyal, & whole—a possibility I never got to see onscreen in my childhood but desperately craved…

I am so humbled & proud to have portrayed you. I’m thrilled that my inner child would have looked at you each week in awe of everything you represent. You made history. Thank you so much, Darren Ritter. And goodbye.

What Daniel Kyri’s Statement Means For Ritter’s Future In Chicago Fire

Ritter’s Return After Season 14 Is Unlikely

Ahead of the Chicago Fire season 13 finale, NBC announced that Kyri would be stepping down as a series regular. However, Kyri later confirmed that he would be reprising his role as Ritter at the beginning of Chicago Fire season 14, but only for a limited time. Now, Kyri has wrapped filming and is seemingly saying goodbye to Ritter for good.

Kyri’s post feels like a permanent farewell. The actor doesn’t explicitly state that, but his heartfelt message and tribute to his character suggest that his time in the One Chicago universe has come to an end, and he might never return. While anything is possible, fans shouldn’t be holding their breath, waiting for Ritter to come back after his last season 14 episode.

Our Take On Ritter Leaving Chicago Fire

Ritter’s Fate Is Unknown

Nothing has been confirmed regarding how Chicago Fire is writing Ritter out of the show. However, if Kyri is to never return, perhaps viewers should be worried about Ritter’s fate. The NBC procedural drama has never been afraid to kill off its main characters. Chicago Fire‘s first big death came in season 3, and Chief Pascal’s wife, Monica, died in season 13.

The series might have brought Kyri back as Ritter in season 14 just to kill him off. Or the reasoning behind his exit could be as innocent as him moving out of Chicago or transferring to a different firehouse. Whatever the case, Kyri is leaving, and fans must prepare to say goodbye to his character when Chicago Fire returns with season 14.