CBS isn’t waiting until the October 17 premiere to deliver answers. The first trailer for Fire Country Season 4 confirms that Vince Leone (Billy Burke) did not survive the devastating blaze that closed out last season. While Sharon (Diane Farr) and Walter (Jeff Fahey) make it out alive, Bode (Max Thieriot) is seen locked inside the truck as the roof caves in — a harrowing moment that Jake (Jordan Calloway) refuses to let him reverse. “I will never forgive this,” Jake yells, cementing the rift ahead.
The trailer then cuts to Vince’s funeral, where Bode gives an emotional eulogy: “I’m going to spend the rest of my career protecting my father’s town, my father’s station, my father’s mission.” But his grief quickly turns into ambition, with Bode telling Jake he should take over as battalion chief — calling the role his “birthright.”
The Fallout of Vince’s Death
Showrunners Tony Phelan and Joan Rater said the decision was about staying true to the realities of firefighting. “On a show about firefighters, it felt truthful to the work that these people do,” Phelan told TV Insider. They added that Vince’s legacy and presence will echo throughout the season, forcing the younger crew to face what it means to grow up in the wake of tragedy.
Sharon, reeling from her husband’s death, delivers another gut punch: Station 42 is suspended from active duty. The team will have to reckon with loss while also fighting for their place in Cal Fire.
Other Key Teases
- Audrey Returns: Leven Rambin’s character is back on the team after being taken away last season for shooting Gabriela’s stalker.
- Gabriela’s Goodbye: Stephanie Arcila appears in the premiere, where Gabriela confesses to Bode, “I still love you,” before exiting as a series regular.
- New Addition: Emmy winner Shawn Hatosy joins Season 4 as a character who specializes in helping firefighters cope with grief.
The Cast
Fire Country stars Max Thieriot as Bode, Diane Farr as Sharon, Jordan Calloway as Jake, Stephanie Arcila as Gabriela, Jules Latimer as Eve, W. Tre Davis as Freddy, Michael Trucco as Luke, and, until his Season 4 exit, Billy Burke as Vince. Leven Rambin returns as Audrey, while Jeff Fahey reprises his role as Walter.
What’s Next
Season 4 promises emotional upheaval, a looming power struggle between Bode and Jake, and a Station 42 that must redefine itself after losing its leader. Fire Country returns Friday, October 17 at 8 PM on CBS and Paramount+, before moving to its regular 9 PM slot the following week.