Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman has teased the arrival of a new firefighter in season 12 who will cause trouble at Truck 81.

Fans have been eagerly awaiting the new season, following season 11’s shocking ending – which left Randall ‘Mouch’ McHolland (Christian Stolte) seriously injured during a tense rescue call.

Speaking to TVLine, Newman revealed that season 12 will see another firefighter join the team, but not without its challenges.
Related: Chicago Fire reveals first look at Taylor Kinney’s return in season 12

“There will be a new firefighter joining Truck 81, but not for the reasons anyone might think,” she said (via Screen Rant ). “Of course, newbies will have trouble with a capital T – but is it the good kind or the bad kind? We’ll find out…”

The producer went on to describe the show’s time jump from the previous season and the significant changes in the team. “There will be a time when the premiere begins, and the viewers and 51 people will join in,” she explained.

“There have been big changes and the 51 gang are on a roller coaster ride throughout the episode trying to get through it all.”
Related: Chicago Med adds Agents of SHIELD star for cameo in season 9

Ahead of the show’s return on January 17, Kara Killmer and Alberto Rosende recently announced that they will be leaving firehouse 51 for the upcoming season.

Killmer joined the show as Sylvie Brett in season three, while Rosende notably played Blake Gallo for four seasons.

How to Get Away with Murder star Rome Flynn later joined the cast along with Taylor Kinney, who returned as Lt. Kelly Severide. The actor temporarily left the show earlier this year due to personal issues.

Chicago Fire, Chicago PD and Chicago Med are expected to return January 17, 2024 on NBC and Peacock in the US and on Sky Witness in the UK.