As a longtime fan of the series, I eagerly anticipated this latest installment, but I must admit, it left me with mixed feelings.

The unresolved saga of Severide’s return to Squad finally saw a glimpse of closure in Season 12, albeit a fleeting one. Just as quickly as he reappeared, he vanished again, this time embarking on an indefinite mission, leaving viewers questioning his commitment once more. At this juncture, perhaps it’s best for him to remain absent.

One of the show’s undeniable charms was the sweet and passionate romance between Severide and Stella Kidd. However, with Severide’s constant comings and goings, Stella finds herself relegated to the sidelines in his affections. She deserves more than being second-best in his heart. It’s time to face the truth and bid farewell to the enigmatic former bad boy of Firehouse 51. Let’s rip off the bandage and allow Stella to move forward without the shadow of Severide’s indecision looming over her.

The highlight of this season so far is the continued development of the characters we’ve grown to love. Herman dealing with the prospect of his hearing loss leading to the end of his firefighter career is a ticking time bomb adding a high level of tension to his storyline. Sylvie Brett leaving to marry Matt Casey is a bummer. She will be missed! To the credit of the writers, they are making the pain of her departure more bearable by writing some really humorous plotlines connected to her impending nuptials. Also, the addition of new characters injects fresh energy into the dynamic, offering intriguing storylines and compelling interactions. New firefighter, Derrick Gibson, played by Rome Flynn, brings an easy swagger that could fill the Sevaride void.

The writers deserve praise for tackling relevant social issues, such as mental health and diversity, with sensitivity and depth. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding layers of authenticity and resonance to the storytelling.

However, Season 12 also has its drawbacks. At times, the plot feels formulaic, relying too heavily on familiar tropes and melodrama. Certain story arcs lack the depth and complexity that we’ve come to expect from the series, leaving them feeling somewhat contrived and predictable.

Additionally, while the action sequences are as thrilling as ever, there are moments when the pacing feels uneven, with some episodes dragging on while others breeze by too quickly. This inconsistency can make it challenging to fully immerse oneself in the narrative, detracting from the overall viewing experience.

Overall, Chicago Fire Season 12 is a solid addition to the series, offering plenty of excitement and emotional moments to satisfy fans. While it may not reach the heights of previous seasons, it still delivers the compelling storytelling and strong performances that have made the show a perennial favorite. Whether you’re a longtime viewer or a newcomer to Firehouse 51, there’s plenty here to keep you hooked and entertained for many episodes to come!

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