Joe Miñoso just revealed whether fans will ever see Cruz back at Firehouse 51 after his emotional Chicago Fire exit. The actor shared his honest thoughts on a potential return and surprised fans with his next move within the One Chicagofranchise.
Joe Miñoso on if Cruz could return to Chicago Fire
Joe Miñoso has confirmed that a return to Chicago Fire as Joe Cruz remains a real possibility. In an exclusive interview with NBC Insider, Miñoso said the door stays open for future guest appearances on the long-running NBC drama.
“I think it’s certainly feasible,” Miñoso told NBC Insider. “Neither myself nor [showrunner Victor Teran] have closed the door on that conversation.” He added that he stands ready whenever the call comes. “So yeah, when and if they decide that they want to ring my bell again, I’m ready and willing,” he said.
Cruz departed Firehouse 51 after 15 seasons on the show. The character retired from the CFD to focus on his growing family ahead of the arrival of newborn twins. His exit featured a tear-jerking send-off following a physical recovery arc that tested the firehouse family.
Despite stepping away from the screen, Miñoso plans to stay within the One Chicago franchise. He revealed that he has secured a directing role on the series. “I told them, ‘Please let me stay and direct.’ And they said yes,” Miñoso shared.
The actor has already shadowed productions extensively throughout his tenure on the show. He described the professional pivot as a deeply rewarding experience. “It’s a different job description, but also in its own way, insanely exciting and such a fulfilling art form,” he said.
Miñoso also highlighted how directing feels more collaborative than acting on set. “It feels like this giant collaboration, and this idea of the best idea wins,” he explained. He noted the constant creative dialogue with Fire producers brings a new kind of fulfillment. “That, to me, has been almost more of a collaborative experience than being an actor on the show for 15 years,” he added.
Chicago Fire airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC and streams next day on Peacock.
