EXCLUSIVE: Chicago Fire original cast member Eamonn Walker is stepping away from his series regular duties on the hit NBC series after 12 seasons portraying boss Wallace Boden, Deadline has learned.
While there have been multiple cast changes of late on OneChicago, we understand that the decision to step back was his own. The Boden character is still very much alive and well, sources said, and Walker is expected to return to the show in a recurring capacity in the future.
Fans will find more clarity regarding what’s been happening with Boden and his plans moving forward in the Season 12 finale “Never Say Goodbye” airing on May 22. The character has been on a short leave of absence due to personal family matters leaving Severide (Taylor Kinney) in charge but will return for the finale.
A logline for the season closer teases, “Boden makes a decision that impacts the race for Deputy Commissioner. A tense call brings up painful memories for Carver [Jake Lockett] and Damon [Michael Bradway]. Mouch [Christian Stolte] struggles to adjust to the new Truck.
On Chicago Fire, Boden began as Battalion Chief of Battalion 25, a boss to many, yes, but most importantly, a mentor and friend who is respected by all. He climbed the ladder (pun intended) earning the promotion to Deputy District Chief in Season 10 and is currently up for Deputy Fire Commissioner, much to the chagrin of a few including Chief Robinson (Laura Allen) who thinks she is more suited to the role. If Boden lands that promotion, it could set up Walker for less screen time with Severide potentially moving up to a higher position and possibly, a whole new era for Chicago Fire.
Walker’s more than 4 decades in the industry to date span TV, stage and film. In addition to his tenure on Chicago Fire, notable credits include his portrayal of Kareem Saïd in the HBO series Oz; the TV movie Othello, a character he also portrayed on stage as the first Black Actor to bring the character to life at the Globe Theatre or Shakespeare’s Globe; ER as Dr. Stephen Dakarai; and Cadillac Records for the big screen.
