The Season 5 finale of NBC’s Chicago Fire is set to feature a couple guests who know a little bit about big finishes. Chicago Cubs All-Star third baseman Kris Bryant and starting pitcher Jake Arrieta are pegged to play themselves in the episode according to The Hollywood Reporter.
You could say the two World Series champions are ratings darlings despite this being their first foray into the world of acting. Last season’s Game 7 against the Cleveland’s numbers blew away every MLB championship from the past quarter century, drawing over 40 million viewers. That’s more than enough to get a place in primetime on a show set in the City of Broad Shoulders.
The episode will revolve an injured young Cubs fan who is rescued by the Chicago Fire crew after a car wreck. With his priceless memorabilia destroyed, it’s up to the crew to give him a little something to be thankful for. David Eigenberg’s Chris Herrmann, a fireman with a soft spot for kids, is expected to play a key role in the episode.
Bryant and Arrieta aren’t the only big names from the sporting world making an appearance, however. NBC’s newest commentator, Mike Tirico, is going to feature in the episode as well. Having moved to NBC’s team only a few months ago, primetime might be a good way for Tirico to introduce himself to the network’s faithful after his 25 year run with ABC and ESPN. The sportscaster is also taking over for network legend Bob Costas’ Olympic duties in 2018.
A special appearance will also be made by the 2016 Commissioner’s Trophy recognizing the World Series victory.
Chicago Fire Season 5 comes to a close on May 16 at 10. Until then, viewers can catch it every Tuesday at the same time. Stay tuned with mxdwn Television for further information about Chicago Fire.