When Chief Pascal left Firehouse 51 on “Chicago Fire,” the crew found themselves under new management with Chief Andre Hopkins stepping in. The tension among the firefighters has risen with Hopkins at the helm, a stark contrast from the leadership of Chief Boden and Pascal. However, it is Hopkins’ personal grudge against Kelly Severide that is causing the most grief at the firehouse.
Hopkins’ vendetta is not against Kelly himself, but rather against his late father, Benny Severide, who once got Hopkins suspended. The reasons behind this animosity have yet to be revealed. While Kelly is away awaiting the results of a captain’s promotion, Hopkins files a complaint against him, seeking to hinder his career and potentially remove him from the fire department altogether.
In a conversation with Parade, actor Rob Mogan, who portrays Hopkins, shares that his character’s actions are driven by a desire to follow protocol and ensure the safety of the city and the firehouse. Despite the consequences his actions may have, Hopkins believes he is simply doing his job and eliminating favoritism within the department.
As the tensions escalate, viewers may perceive Hopkins as a hardass, but Mogan sees his character differently. He views Hopkins as a man dedicated to upholding standards and making sure everyone is safe. While Kelly’s reputation and legacy in the department play a role, Hopkins’ focus is on maintaining a fair and unbiased environment.
The plot thickens as Stella Kidd, another firefighter who has broken protocol by having her spouse on shifts with her, comes into the spotlight. As more details about Benny Severide and the events surrounding his suspension are revealed, the true motivations behind Hopkins’ actions begin to surface.
“Chicago Fire” continues to explore this intricate web of relationships and tensions within Firehouse 51. As the drama unfolds, viewers are left questioning who will come out on top in this battle of wills and loyalties.
Catch “Chicago Fire” on Wednesday nights at 9 p.m. ET/PT on NBC, with episodes available for streaming the next day on Peacock. Stay tuned to see how the conflict between Hopkins and Severide evolves in the coming episodes.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.