Why Crossovers Still Matter in One Chicago

When Chicago Fire skips crossovers, fans notice. Viewers are used to seeing Firehouse 51 join forces with Chicago Med or Chicago PD when storylines heat up. Yet, in Season 13, even a finale that focused on a murder investigation moved forward without a single CPD character. That absence made the mystery feel isolated, even though the Intelligence Unit was busy handling its own drama.

But one actor has been very vocal about wanting that to change. Jocelyn Hudon, who plays Lizzie Novak, has her sights set on a specific type of crossover for the upcoming season.

Jocelyn Hudon Wants Novak in the Action

Hudon joined the franchise recently, but her limited role in the 2025 One Chicago crossover left her wanting more. She spent much of her screen time paired with fellow newcomer John Frost. Rumors even hinted at a possible romance between their characters. Still, Novak’s lack of interaction with Chicago PD stuck out.

Hudon has since shared her vision: Novak should be pulled into the action alongside Intelligence. Not in the background. Not just treating injuries. But front and center, with her life on the line. The actress’s enthusiasm mirrors Lizzie’s fiery personality and offers a fresh angle for a crossover event.

Season 13 Already Teased That Possibility

One storyline late in Season 13 nearly set this up. In Episode 19, Violet Mikami and Lizzie answered a call that revealed a horrifying truth. A rogue paramedic had been performing botched emergency procedures and leaving patients to die.

With CPD’s help, Violet tracked the culprit and prevented further tragedies. But while Violet dove headfirst into the case with support from Carver, Lizzie stayed on the sidelines. Most of her scenes revolved around asking Ritter if she could move in with him.

This creative choice clearly gave Violet and Carver time to address their own complicated relationship. Yet, the setup showed how Ambo 61 could stumble into an investigation that easily overlaps with CPD. For Novak, it was a missed opportunity. For Season 14, it’s a clear blueprint.

What Season 14 Could Do Differently

To make Hudon’s dream a reality, Chicago Fire needs to push Novak into the line of fire. Imagine Novak and Violet responding to a call only to cross paths with criminals before CPD can secure the scene. That split-second encounter could turn Novak from bystander to target.

The danger would give her the adrenaline-fueled storyline Hudon craves while also justifying a deeper crossover with Chicago PD. Stakes would be higher, and the connection between Ambo 61 and Intelligence would feel earned rather than forced.

This approach wouldn’t be new to TV. The Rookie has done something similar by giving Bailey, a firefighter, moments of high-stakes action during hostage crises and out-of-control emergencies. Chicago Fire could easily take inspiration from that formula.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time

Season 14 offers the perfect opening. With Jake Lockett’s exit, Violet and Carver’s romance seems to be on pause. That shift allows space for Novak to step up as a major player without being overshadowed.

Even better, all One Chicago leads are confirmed to return for the 2025-2026 season. That means any member of Intelligence could realistically appear alongside Ambo 61 in a major crossover storyline. With Novak’s eagerness to prove herself, the timing couldn’t be better.

Fans Should Expect the Unexpected

Crossover events in One Chicago always deliver surprises. Yet this time, Jocelyn Hudon’s push for Novak to get more action may turn into reality. If Chicago Fire leans into Novak’s bold spirit and throws her into a CPD case, Season 14 could deliver one of the most thrilling crossovers yet.

For longtime fans, it’s not just about seeing squads unite. It’s about giving newer characters like Novak the chance to shine. And with the stage already set by Season 13, the dream of a Chicago Fire and Chicago PD crossover featuring Novak may soon become a reality.