Joe Miñoso’s Joe Cruz has left Chicago Fire after appearing in the NBC drama since its pilot. The character’s departure came in the series’ 300th episode, titled “Three Hundred,” after an injury and a lengthy recovery put his future as a firefighter in doubt.
Cruz regains the ability to walk and is close to returning to Firehouse 51, but the arrival of his premature, healthy twins changes his plans. He tells Severide that he will not return to the firehouse and that his family is moving to the Minneapolis area, where Chloe’s parents can help with the babies and Cruz can continue his recovery. Before leaving, he visits Otis’ memorial and takes a final photo with his fellow firefighters.
In an interview with TVLine, Miñoso said he understood the creative decision to write Cruz out. He recalled thinking during Season 14 that he had explored a lot with the character, and said the twins storyline made the timing feel right. He also praised the multi-episode farewell, describing it as “a really touching, beautiful exit” that allowed Cruz to endure a difficult experience without losing sight of his strength.
Cruz’s exit was not always planned as a departure from the firehouse. Miñoso said he and the creative team discussed a version in which the character died, but he felt the story ultimately produced was a strong outcome for Cruz. The arc also showed resentment toward Herrmann after Cruz lost the physical ability that had shaped both his work and his sense of identity, before he gradually let go of that anger.
Miñoso said filming the final episode was highly emotional and that he cried throughout the week. He noted that his conversation with Severide was the last scene he filmed, and that he had suggested Cruz’s moment at Otis’ memorial. Although there have been no specific discussions about returning to the screen, Miñoso said the possibility is “out in the ether.” He has also been exploring work behind the camera, including shadowing directors on the show.
Sources: TVLine.