BONUS: Andrea Newman Interview Recapping Season 13

·53 min·5 clips

Showrunner Andrea Newman reveals how Season 13 of Chicago Fire explores the 'ghosts and shadows' of Severide's past and his secret brother.

This bonus episode features an interview with Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman, conducted by host Hanako Greensmith who plays Violet on the show. Newman begins by explaining the season's overarching theme of 'ghosts and shadows,' particularly how it manifests through Severide discovering his secret brother Damon and grappling with his father Benny's legacy. She details the planned arc for Damon's departure and return to Firehouse 51. The conversation shifts to Stella Kidd's character development, revealing why this season explored her family background and her consideration of adoption due to career concerns and family history of postpartum depression. Newman discusses the introduction of new character Chief Pascal, describing his enigmatic personality and troubled relationship with Monica, and how actor Dermot Mulroney influenced the writing. She explains Carver's traumatic trip to Texas to confront his family, which led to his relapse with Tori and subsequent alcoholism storyline. Newman addresses fan questions about Violet and Carver's delayed romance, citing Carver's need to get sober first. She reveals the emotional backstory of Episode 16's voiceover, noting how a writer's personal loss during wildfires influenced the episode. The interview covers Herman and Mouch's career advancement plots, the return of characters like Boden and Kylie, and the departures of actors Jake and Daniel due to budget cuts. Newman shares favorite comedic moments including Mouch versus a bird and Cruz's awkward condolences. She concludes with her current TV recommendations like Hacks and Nordic noir series.

As heard by us

A Season 13 conversation about Severide's family secrets and the grief shaping Violet, Carver, and Pascale.

The Season 13 conversation stays with the show's darker family material, tracing Severide's discovery that Damon is his brother back through Benny's hidden history, Damon's treatment, and the father issues that have long shaped Severide.

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Why you'd press play

Press play if the Severide-Damon brother reveal and Violet's guarded heart have you wanting the emotional wiring behind this Chicago Fire season.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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