Joe Miñoso’s final episode of Chicago Fire coincided with the NBC drama’s 300th installment. After more than 14 years playing Joe Cruz, the actor’s character leaves Firehouse 51 to join his family in Minnesota. Miñoso said the timing felt right and described the milestone as bittersweet.
The actor told Deadline that he learned about a possible directing opportunity shortly after finding out he would be leaving the series. He has directed and produced some of his own projects and is now shadowing directors on set, with the aim of directing an episode in the future. No episode has been selected yet.
Cruz’s departure follows a season in which the character faced personal struggles and reconsidered his priorities. Miñoso said Cruz’s decision came when he realized his family needed him in a different way. He also noted that the writers considered killing Cruz, but ultimately chose to give him an emotional storyline instead.
Miñoso singled out Cruz’s private conversation with Severide, played by Taylor Kinney, as his favorite scene with the character. He said it gave the two men a chance to connect on more equal and intimate terms, and that the vulnerability in the scene echoed the actors’ long history on the show.
The episode also returns to the memorial for Cruz’s friend Otis, played by Yuri Sardarov. Miñoso said he suggested including the moment to give their relationship a proper conclusion and honor both the character and the fans. He wanted the scene to focus on the brothers’ affection rather than simply feel sad.
Miñoso said he and Sardarov are exploring a rewatch podcast to celebrate the series and their friendship. He thanked viewers for supporting Cruz throughout his time on the show.
Sources: Deadline.