Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman explains what Mouch’s

fate in season 12 means for the rest of the latest season. When he was last seen,

the firefighter was on death’s door after getting injured on the job. However,

a six-month time jump reveals he has survived and is back on the force, ready to continue saving lives.Speaking with TVLine, Newman explains the decision to keep Mouch alive in Chicago Fire season 12, saying there are still more stories for him to be involved with. This includes processing what happened to him, and how it will change how he does his job moving forward. Check out what Newman says below:

How Mouch’s Recovery Will Impact Him In Chicago Fire Season 12

Chicago Fire season 11 ended with Mouch flatlining, signaling that he was medically dead for some time. However, his return in season 12 indicates how his rough road to recovery led to him still being able to do his job. Though, as Newman states, his near-death experience means some aspects of his character may be impacted by the trauma he endured.

The decision to keep him alive also prevents the cast from thinning out, as major characters are going to be leaving the show and the wider One Chicago universe in future episodes. Blake Gallo made his final appearance in the season 12 premiere, revealing he was moving to Michigan in a final goodbye to Firehouse 51. Sylvie Brett will also be saying her goodbyes later this season, though it’s unclear what her final fate is going to be.

Since Mouch has been around since Chicago Fire season 1, it makes sense to have a familiar face like his continue to be part of the franchise’s future. It also sets up a happier ending for him in later seasons, once he decides his time on the force has come to an end. For now, though, it will prove interesting to see how much more cautious he decides to be during calls as season 12 carries on.