We all love a gripping life-or-death drama, those TV shows that keep us glued to the screen, heart racing, tissues at the ready. Whether it’s Greyâs Anatomy, ER, House, or 911, there’s something undeniably addictive about watching heroes save lives under impossible pressure.
If you’re similar to me, Chicago Fire occupies a unique place in your hearts. It’s the one show I keep going back to. There’s something about the show, the sirens, the sweat, and the saving that always draws me back.
First aired in 2012, Chicago Fire has been lighting up our screens for 11 powerful seasons and counting. Firefighters and paramedics not only confront terrifying emergencies but also grapple with real-life human struggles in the shadows. Yet, they show up every time. That mix of courage and vulnerability is why we canât stop watching.
But what if I told you that Chicago Fire is more complex than it first appears? Letâs dive into some juicy, lesser-known facts about Chicago Fire, both on and off screen.
Please let me know the filming location for Chicago Fire.
Welcome to the real Firehouse 51
Indeed, Chicago serves as the filming location for Chicago Fire! That gorgeous firehouse you saw? Itâs Fire Station 18, located at 1360 S. Blue Island Ave. Die-hard fans have even made the pilgrimage to take photos outside.
Mollyâs Bar is realâand you can visit it
The iconic “Molly’s Bar”, owned by characters Herrmann, Dawson, and Otis, isn’t a made-up set. Itâs Lottieâs Pub in Bucktown, a real-life Chicago bar. If you’re ever in the city, you can sip a drink while your favourite characters hang out after long shifts.
Real firefighters = real authenticity.
Meet Anthony Ferraris, real-life hero
Hereâs a cool one. Anthony Ferraris, who plays Tony from Squad 3, is actually a working firefighter. He doesnât just act; he lives it. On set, he helps the cast and crew get the technical details rightâfrom gear positioning to how to break down doors.
This commitment to realism is what makes Chicago Fire feel so legit. Itâs not just drama; itâs grounded in the real world.
Wait, was that a real crash on the news?
When fiction fooled the media
What is one of the most unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments? In November 2012, news channel WGN-TV accidentally aired what they believed was a real plane crash at 29th and Martin Luther King Drive. However, it turned out to be a carefully staged crash scene for Chicago Fire.
Yep. It was so realistic. The news anchor had to retract the story, proving just how far the production team goes to create believable emergencies.
You might recognise some familiar faces.
Jesse Spencer: from hospital scrubs to fire gear
Before he was Captain Matthew Casey, Jesse Spencer was already saving lives, just in a hospital. He starred as Dr Robert Chase in the hit medical drama House M.D. for years.
Seeing him trade in his stethoscope for a fire helmet was a treat for fans who followed his career.
Taylor Kinney and Lady Gaga?!
Yes, that is Taylor Kinney. Our beloved Kelly Severide started dating Lady Gaga in 2011 after meeting her on the set of her “You and I” music video. They maintained a long-term relationship and even engaged before calling it off.
Who knew Severide had a pop star past?
Accents and acting: how far they go
Eamonn Walker and Jesse Spencer needed vocal help
Did you know both Eamonn Walker (Chief Boden) and Jesse Spencer had to work with voice coaches to nail their American accents? Walker is British, while Spencer hails from Australia.
Honestly, they performed flawlessly. If you didnât know, you wouldnât guess they werenât native speakers. Itâs a testament to their dedication as actors.
The Chicago skyline is a secret.
Hereâs a cheeky one: the skyline you see through the firehouse door is… fake. Yep. You wouldn’t actually see this panorama if you stood at Firehouse 51 in real life. Google Earth reveals the truth. But hey, weâll forgive them, it looks fantastic on screen!
Final thoughts: light it up!
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the Chicago Fire universe, these facts just prove how much heart goes into every episode. Itâs a show that respects the profession it portrays while delivering high-stakes drama and emotional depth.
Remember, there’s a whole world behind that firehouse door the next time you’re curling up with your snacks and watching Squad 3. And it’s just as fascinating as what’s on screen.
