After 300 episodes, Chicago Fire star Joe Miñoso officially addresses series exit and why timing felt right

Why Miñoso left the drama

Chicago Fire began on October 10, 2012, and has reached its 15th season. Its 300th episode drew attention, including discussion of Miñoso’s departure after years playing Cruz. In a TVLine interview, Miñoso said the decision to write him out came from the show, not from a request by the actor. Still, he said he had begun thinking during Season 14 that he and the character might be ready to move on.

Miñoso said the twins storyline felt like the right moment. He added that he understood the decision and described the show’s response as gracious.

A different role on set

Miñoso’s acting connection to the NBC drama may continue. He told TVLine that soon after his exit, he was asked whether he would be interested in directing episodes.

He said he has been shadowing directors and learning about work that performers do not often see. The experience, he said, has given him more appreciation for the process.

Cruz’s family-focused departure

Miñoso praised the storyline, saying it explored a difficult period for Cruz and the support he found through the firehouse family. He called the material intense and said he felt honored to be trusted with it. The showrunner had considered killing Cruz, Miñoso told TVLine, but the show’s bosses decided that outcome would be too sad.