Chicago Fire 11×11 “A Guy I Used To Know” Spoilers Ahead

Chicago Fire Season 11, Episode 11, “A Guy I Used To Know,” is rough for various reasons. It’s about how sometimes, the people who seem to get away with everything finally get what’s coming for them. It’s also about what happens when things seem bleak, and the hope only loved ones can provide.
If last week’s episode took time to acknowledge the importance of rest after taxing events, then Chicago Fire 11×11 is about the possibilities after periods of darkness. For a moment, it seemed like no one would be able to take Emma down, but even in death, Hawkins protects Violet and everyone at Firehouse 51. Where it seemed as though financial perils could cut Sylvie’s paramedicine program, there was a solution there. And even when it appeared Firehouse 51 might not pass the inspection, Gallo’s mistake somehow worked in his favor. Therefore, it’s almost easy to hope that Cindy and Hermann will get better news after the surgery. (They better!)
A Guy I Used To Know

Whatever the title represents, it’s clearly about the changes that are coming. At the same time, it’s about the heartbreaking reality that Hawkins still isn’t with us. But the guy Violet used to know continues to prove that even in death, he’s still looking out for her. Whether we believe in guardian angels or not, it’s a comforting thought to acknowledge that they can exist. And despite some of the heartbreaking matters, “A Guy I Used To Know” is proof that the paramedicine program was a brilliant idea.
For a while, it seemed as though the series had no idea what to do with Sylvie, but this episode is proof of the fact that the paramedicine program is a good thing. Sylvie’s empathy and heart toward the patients people often dismiss continue to be a hopeful showcase of how people in medicine should be. They should be open, honest, and understanding, choosing to care about patients by getting to know them sincerely. Sylvie knows her patients, and knowing them means understanding what they need better than anyone else. Thus, it was sweet to see Sylvie help the patient at the store and provide people watching with the compassion to understand that she shouldn’t immediately judge a situation without carefully considering all the things that can be wrong. Granted, many wouldn’t know what Sylvie does, which is why her presence acts as an empathetic showcase.
Get the Booze

In more ways than one, Chicago Fire 11×11 highlights the detail that everyone could use help. Chief Boden might be everyone’s go-to, but when it comes to inspections, he’s the one who needs his team to bring their best foot forward. And sometimes, the best foot forward is booze. Or, in this case, it’s a second chance for it.
But it’s also about the little ways friends have each other’s backs, like Ritter pulling up the D.I.Y. cleaning supply and allowing Gallo to take the credit for it. It’s about Kelly choosing to believe in someone he knows and refusing to back down until all his i’s are dotted and t’s crossed. Chicago Fire is great when it focuses on the little moments, and hopefully, it won’t go down another dark route with death or perils no one wants to see on a show that often addresses complex situations.
Further Thoughts
- Begging for this truly to be the last time we ever see Emma again.
- Chief Boden freaking out is a sight to be sure.
- Okay but Kylie, why would you actually get rid of it and not hide it somewhere?
- That brief exchange at the beginning with Carver, Severide, and Stella was actually good? But somehow on this show, telling someone you owe them something could be tricky.
- Violet destroyed me at Evan’s house and the framed photo!?!? I hate it here.
- Kinda, super glad they’re not pushing Sylvie dating right now.
- PROTECT HERMANN AND CINDY AT ALL COSTS, CHICAGO FIRE.
- Nice to see Jana Kramer outside of a Hallmark film!
Now streaming on Peacock: What are your thoughts on Chicago Fire 11×11 “A Guy I Used To Know?” Let us know in the comments below.