Chicago Fire is set for an exciting twist as Eamonn Walker, the actor behind Chief Wallace Boden, hints at a dramatic return for his character. Since its debut in October 2012, NBC’s premier procedural has captivated audiences, showcasing the gripping dynamics within the Chicago Fire Department’s Firehouse 51. Following her promotion to Deputy Commissioner at the end of season 12, Boden took a step back from the action. However, recent trailers for the upcoming episode indicate that his presence will once again resonate within the walls of Firehouse 51.
In an interview with Deadline, Walker shared details about Boden’s anticipated return in season 13, episode 18, which is scheduled to air on April 16. This episode will showcase Boden, now a Deputy Commissioner, stepping in to investigate a fire incident where a firefighter is tragically left behind. This scenario brings added tension, as Boden will face off against the new station chief, Pascal—a situation he knows well from his past at Firehouse 51. Below are Walker’s insights regarding his return:
Walker: Boden lives inside of me. My problem is stopping Boden from popping out. [LAUGHS] It was amazing to go back. It was amazing to put the uniform on. I’d missed everybody terribly, and the welcome that I got was second to none. I feel very privileged as an actor to have a cast, a crew, and a production office step up and welcome you home.
That’s what it was like, and then we went to work. We knew that there was a very special episode. The writing in this episode is fantastic, and the filming of it is unusual for a Chicago Fire episode. I think you’ve got more of a movie here than an episode.
Deadline: Boden has been gone for a hot minute, and so many things have happened. Boden’s pick to succeed him was Hermann (David Eigenberg), who has now taken the chief exam. Will he be weighing in on any of that?
Walker: With his situation as it stands, none of that stuff matters. You know, the immediacy of somebody possibly dying is what takes precedent, and so he’s come to find out whose fault it is. Whatever relationships, politics, or promotions going on before, this situation right now could change all of that for everyone—none of that matters. And you know, Bowden’s investigating his old favorite house, so he has got to tread very carefully. He’s been a chief who’s been on the line.
We watched more than 15 to 20 episodes where somebody was turning around and giving Bowden a hard time for the way he was doing his job. It’s Pascal’s [Dermot Mulroney] time this time, and I’m the one coming in. In my case, it was always a deputy, a deputy chief, or somebody higher than the chief coming in. There’s only one person above me, and that’s the commissioner. It doesn’t get more intense than that.
Impact of Boden’s Return on Chicago Fire Season 13
Conflict and Intensity of Boden’s Return
Walker emphasizes the film-like quality of this upcoming episode, highlighting its remarkable writing and distinctive filming style. He anticipates a significant impact not only on the delivery of this particular storyline but also on potential future developments for the series. While Boden’s return is likely to be met with enthusiasm by fans, his investigation into the fire incident positions him as an antagonist in the context of the show. This challenging dynamic will further complicate his relationships with characters, especially Pascal, and drive the plot in unforeseen directions.
Our Analysis of Boden’s Return
Future Appearances of Boden
While details remain vague regarding the number of episodes in which Walker will reprise his role, the possibility of his return has sparked excitement among fans. Although this particular episode may be a standalone event, Walker expressed a willingness to return for additional episodes if the script allows. With the uncertainty surrounding the renewal of Chicago Fire for a potential season 14, there remains hope that viewers may see more of Boden in the future. Regardless of the outcome, his return will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the narrative arc of the series.
Source: Deadline