When Eamonn Walker’s Wallace Boden exited Chicago Fire in season 12 he said we’d see him again and in season 13, he’s making that statement a reality.
Walker will make his highly anticipated return to Chicago Fire in Season 13, stepping back into the role of Boden in episode 18, titled “Post-Mortem.” The episode airs Wednesday, April 16, at 9/8c on NBC—so mark your calendars because this one sounds like a game-changer.
Walker, who’s been the backbone of Firehouse 51 since Chicago Fire first hit screens in 2012, took a step back from series regular duties last season. But now, he’s back—and not just for a casual drop-in. This time, Boden is tasked with leading a post-incident analysis of a devastating house fire that collapsed with a firefighter inside. Commissioner Grissom put him on the case, and let’s be real—if there’s anyone who can get to the bottom of it, it’s Boden.
Showrunner Andrea Newman teased what’s to come, saying, “We’re so excited to have our beloved Chief Boden back, and the episode, titled ‘Post-Mortem,’ is a thrill ride unlike any we’ve done before. Told with flashbacks and unique POVs, Chief Boden leads our team on a search to discover the how, who, and why of a fierce firefight that ended in disaster.”
That’s right—expect tension, twists, and probably a few moments that will have you yelling at your screen.
The last time we saw Boden, he had just accepted his promotion to First Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Fire Department, leaving Firehouse 51 in the hands of a new leader, Dom Pascal (played by Dermot Mulroney). But let’s not forget—Boden wanted Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) to step into his shoes. At the time of his departure, Herrmann hadn’t taken the captain’s test. Fast forward to Season 13, and Herrmann has passed, along with his longtime friend Mouch (Christian Stolte), who secured a lieutenant’s test win.
So, what’s Boden going to think about Pascal running things instead? Will this episode set the stage for a leadership shake-up? Guess we’ll have to watch and see.
Since stepping back from Chicago Fire, Walker has been spending time in London with his loved ones. However, it was always clear that the door was open for him to return whenever he wanted. Now, he’s stepping back into the heat, and longtime viewers couldn’t be happier to see Chief Boden back in action.
With all the leadership changes at Firehouse 51, Season 13 has been a rollercoaster of new dynamics and challenges. Showrunner Andrea Newman previously hinted at darker themes and higher stakes this season, and with Boden back in the mix, things are bound to get even more intense.
Don’t miss Eamonn Walker’s return in “Post-Mortem” on April 16 at 9/8c on NBC. And if you can’t catch it live, Peacock has your back the next day.