Firefighting... with cameras? How Chicago Fire brings the heat (literally and figuratively) to your screen
So, you love Chicago Fire. You devour episodes like Casey devours Molly's chili (minus the near-death experience, hopefully). But have you ever wondered: just where are all these daring rescues and dramatic firehouse shenanigans filmed? Buckle up, because we're about to take a tour that's hotter than Severide fresh out of the shower.
Firehouse 51: The Real Deal (with a Hollywood Twist)
Chicago Fire gets major points for authenticity. Believe it or not, the exterior shots of Firehouse 51 are filmed at a real firehouse – Engine 18 of the Chicago Fire Department. That's right, folks, these firefighters are trading real flames for the slightly less dangerous glow of studio lights (although, let's be honest, those klieg lights can get toasty). The firefighters there are practically rockstars, used to fans stopping by for selfies (between saving lives, of course). Fun fact: the original pilot had a firehouse slide, but since Engine 18 is a single-story building, they had to ditch it for realism. Guess Hollywood magic has its limits (although, a firehouse slide would be pretty epic).
Interior Design by Hollywood (with a Big Assist from Engine 18)
Now, while the outside of Firehouse 51 is the real deal, the inside is where things get a little more Hollywood. The crew films most of their firehouse living quarters and common areas on a soundstage at Cinespace Chicago Film Studios. Think fancy furniture, controlled lighting, and the ability to create dramatic smoke effects without setting off real alarms (although, that might make for some interesting bloopers). Here's a little trivia for you die-hard fans: in some scenes of the kitchen, you can actually spot a doorway. If there's a drinking fountain next to it, that's the REAL firehouse kitchen. If not, it's Hollywood at work!
Chicago: The Windy City and a Filming Star
Chicago Fire wouldn't be the same without showcasing the city itself. The show films all over Chicago, capturing everything from the bustling Magnificent Mile to the serene banks of Lake Michigan. So next time you're visiting the Windy City, keep your eyes peeled – you might just stumble upon a scene being filmed! Just try not to get in the way – Herrmann needs all the elbow room he can get to perfect his famous chili recipe.
Molly's: Bringing the Drama (and the Burgers)
Everyone knows Molly's is the heart and soul of the Firehouse 51 crew's social life. Originally, Molly's was filmed at Lottie's Pub, a real bar in Bucktown. But the popularity of the show brought in a few too many fans, making it hard for the regulars to enjoy their usual watering hole. So, the crew recreated the look and feel of Lottie's on a soundstage, complete with its signature charm (and hopefully, a way better ventilation system for all that barbeque).
So there you have it! The next time you watch Chicago Fire, you'll have a whole new appreciation for the behind-the-scenes magic that brings the heat. And hey, if you ever find yourself in Chicago, don't be surprised to see a fire truck roar past with a camera crew hot on its heels. Just remember, it's all in the name of entertainment (and maybe a little Emmy love).