Does Chicago Fire's Cruz Still Want To Be A Lieutenant? Actor Joe Miñoso Responds

Chicago Fire star Joe Miñoso has revealed key insights into his character, firefighter Joe Cruz, and his decision not to pursue the lieutenant’s test, choosing to instead remain at Firehouse 51. Chicago Fire season 13 continues to follow the personal lives of firefighters, paramedics, and rescue teams. Miñoso’s discernment follows years of Cruz’s growth on Chicago Fire, where he’s become a cornerstone of Squad 3 and a devoted family man.

During an exclusive interview with Screen Rant, Miñoso notes how Cruz’s internal conflict about the lieutenant test arose during pivotal interactions with Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney), where he grappled with feelings of underappreciation in his role. However, as these tensions resolve, Cruz opts for stability and camaraderie at Firehouse 51, prioritizing his sense of belonging and familial bonds. His decision highlights his commitment to balancing his responsibilities at work and at home. Check out Miñoso’s full interview below:

Screen Rant: Cruz decided against taking the lieutenant test so that he could stay at Firehouse 51. Is there still a part of him that wants to be a lieutenant? Where is his head right now?

Miñoso: I think, especially after becoming a father and now really having a taste for leadership, he’s been the acting lieutenant on Squad 3 for a couple of years now, that’s always in the back of his mind, especially as a father who has to take care of two kids who will hopefully end up going to college one day. Money is always a thing he’s thinking about, but I think, right now, there was some great stuff between Severide and Cruz early on in the season that I think brought them closer together.

I think Cruz just wanted to feel in that moment when he was talking about taking the test and leaving the firehouse. I think he just wanted to feel needed or wanted. He felt a little bit like he was disrespected for the work that he did when Severide wasn’t around. He feels that those wounds have mended between him and Severide. Right now, he’s, I think, happy to stay. He’s a family guy. He loves his family, he loves to be around his family, and 51 is, without a doubt, his family.”

What This Means for Cruz’s Future On Chicago Fire

His Decision to Stay Will Evolve His Character

Joe Cruz’s choice not to take the lieutenant’s test in Chicago Fire signals a shift in his career focus. While his leadership abilities have been honed during his time as acting lieutenant, his decision suggests that professional advancement isn’t his primary goal. Instead, Cruz values the leadership role he already holds within Squad 3, balancing his ambitions with his responsibilities as a father and team member.

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Chicago Fire Season 13 New Cast & Returning Character Guide

Although season 12 featured many exits, the Chicago Fire season 13 cast has many familiar names (including four original actors) and some new ones.

By staying, Cruz maintains continuity within Firehouse 51, ensuring Squad 3’s cohesion. His presence reinforces the familial atmosphere that defines the team, and his commitment underlines his loyalty to the firehouse. Also, Cruz’s decision helps balance the leadership dynamics within Firehouse 51, ultimately solidifying Cruz’s role as both a mentor and peer.

Cruz’s decision to take the exam adds depth to his character’s narrative. By choosing stability, the show explores themes of familial sacrifice and workplace loyalty, resonating with viewers who value personal relationships over career ambitions. This choice opens the door for new plotlines revolving around Cruz’s family and his evolving role within the firehouse.

Our Take On Cruz’s Loyalty To Chicago Fire

Cruz’s Loyalty To Firehouse 51 Is Vital To The Series

Otis and Cruz on duty at Firehouse 51 on Chicago Fire

Cruz’s decision to stay at Firehouse 51 demonstrates his commitment to both his team and his family. His choice reflects a balance between professional growth and personal priorities, enriching the show’s portrayal of complex, relatable characters. His continued presence at Firehouse 51 ensures that Squad 3 remains strong and unified, preserving the heart of the team and its core dynamic in Chicago Fire.