Speaking to Us Weekly in 2022 about unexpected character fates on “Chicago Fire,” Joe Minoso (who plays Joe Cruz) revealed some intriguing details about how cast members remember those departed, including Cruz’s best friend in the program, Brian Zvonecek. The actor shared how naming Joe’s son after Otis was intentional on the writer’s part. The actor stated, “[That was] definitely 100 percent the writers’ call on that one, but at the same time, I remember [creator] Derek [Haas] pitching it to me and I was like, ‘His name’s Otis, right?’ It just felt right.”
This also shows that screenwriters pay attention to audience engagement with characters. Minoso then shared, “And I think everyone sort of knew that. Even right before Chloe [Kristen Gutoskie] gave birth. There was a whole thing on Twitter where people were like, ‘If this kid’s name isn’t Otis, I’m gonna lose my mind.'”
The actor also pointed out some small details viewers can keep an eye out for when it comes to Cruz paying homage to Otis. If you pay attention closely to the scenes where Joe is simply at the department working, you can sometimes spot the character using Otis’ old coffee mug. You can also spot some of the departed fan favorite’s toys and memorabilia in Cruz’s apartment as well. Characters may come and go on “Chicago Fire,” but their memories certainly live on.
