Spotlight on Darren Ritter: A Chicago Fire Character Deserving More

Chicago Fire has captivated audiences for over a decade, and its thirteenth season kicked off at the end of September. With a robust ensemble cast, the show has navigated numerous plotlines, allowing many characters to shine. However, one character who seems to have been overlooked is Darren Ritter, portrayed by the immensely talented Daniel Kyri.

A Brief Introduction to Ritter – Ritter made his first appearance in Season 7, during a tense multi-alarm fire at a high-rise building. Although he is new to the job, he faces harsh treatment from his Lieutenant, which shakes his confidence. Thankfully, he finds support from fellow firefighters Mouch and Herrmann, who help him regain his footing. This initial arc showcased Ritter’s vulnerability and determination, yet it marked just the beginning of his journey.

The Understated Storylines – Ritter’s character took a significant turn in Season 8 when he came out as gay to Herrmann. This moment was handled with care, highlighting the bond between the two characters, but it quickly faded into the background. Subsequent seasons offered glimpses into Ritter’s life—his dedication to family, his emotional intelligence, and his growth as a firefighter—yet these insights were often subtle and brief.

Missed Opportunities – Much of Ritter’s character development occurs off-screen, leaving fans wanting more depth and exploration of his relationships and personal struggles. Despite these limitations, Ritter has shown immense potential, and Kyri’s performance consistently impresses.

While Ritter often plays a supporting role to other characters like Blake Gallo and Violet Mikami, his backstory and emotions deserve more attention. Viewers have learned that he joined the Chicago Fire Department to honor his late uncle, a former firefighter. This poignant detail adds layers to his character, yet the show has not fully explored it.

Kyri’s acting ability shines through in key moments, such as when he conveys a complex mix of emotions during pivotal scenes. Whether he’s holding his own against seasoned actors or showcasing his vulnerability, Kyri’s talent cannot be denied.

A Glimmer of Hope – In the first two episodes of Season 12, Ritter received a slight increase in screen time, hinting at a brighter future for the character. The storyline involving Ritter’s romantic relationship with a police officer sparked interest, although the narrative was somewhat sidelined. Nevertheless, the promise of more significant arcs was hinted at by showrunner Andrea Newman, who teased a “Ritter-heavy season” in Season 13.

The Future of Darren Ritter – As Daniel Kyri explores opportunities beyond Chicago Fire—including modeling and releasing music—fans are hopeful that the writers will recognize the potential for deeper storylines for Ritter. With Kyri’s talent and charisma, the character could truly shine if given the chance.

For now, viewers can catch Darren Ritter in action on Chicago Fire, streaming on Peacock. Here’s hoping that the upcoming season delivers the rich, engaging storylines that both Kyri and Ritter deserve.