SkimIt
Chicago Fire joined the long list of new shows for the 2012 - 2013 lineup. This is definitely a show that has split opinions, which makes it hard to tell whether or not it will make the cut. With so many new shows being cancelled before they are even given the chance to accumulate viewers or establish a stable storyline, Chicago Fire needs a great show week in week out. While ratings for the third episode jumped up 20 percent, it still came in ranking last in its 10:00 pm time slot. Here are five suggestions that may help to keep this show going strong.
Chicago Fire starring Jesse Spencer, Taylor Kinney and Monica Raymund airs on NBC Wednesdays at 10:00 pm ET.
Racial Divide
Firefighters are no stranger to controversy when it comes to racial divide. This year, the news has seen numerous stories of firefighters under investigation or facing demotion because of untasteful racial comments. A fire captain in South Florida was placed under scrutiny for comments he made on Facebook regarding the Trayvon Martin case that were interpreted by critics as racial attacks. The truth is that racism is still present in America and it does not always stop at the firehouse door when men and women don their fire hats and get to work. While many shows try to stay away from racial controversy in their storylines, Chicago Fire should add some realistic work environment issues that come up when working in close proximity with people of different backgrounds.
Diversity In Chicago
Chicago is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the United States. There are numerous communities throughout Chicago with large numbers of different nationalities, races and backgrounds. Chicago has the largest number of Polish citizens outside of Poland, a huge Chinatown area, Ukrainian Village, Little Italy and a thriving Puerto Rican community in Humboldt Park complete with a giant Puerto Rican flag statue standing at the main intersection. In order to make Chicago Fire’s setting a bit more credible, the show should add some diversity in the cast and also take advantage of the rich, diverse neighborhoods that Chicago has to offer.
Chicago Sports
Chicago has a rich history of sports, whether it's the unforgettable wins by Michael Jordan and the Bulls, the Cubs coming ever-so-close to their first World Series championship since 1908 but always failing, or the Bears being one of the most historic teams in the NFL. Chicagoans take their sports incredibly serious. If these firemen are really from Chicago, there would be much more enthusiasm for Chicago sports in the firehouse. Whether it's wearing sports attire during off days, visiting a local sports bar or going to a game; Chicago Fire should add some team spirit to their shows.
Affairs
It's a well known saying, "Never date a cop or a fireman." Whether it's the stress of the job, ever-changing work schedule or the added attention that comes with the uniform; firemen are not known for their fidelity. Long, 24-hour shifts coupled with sporadic furloughs could give firefighters of Chicago Fire more opportunity to hide knowledge of their whereabouts from their spouses. Putting in some extra-marital affair drama can add to the dynamics of the relationships of the firefighters.
Corruption
While many people think Chicago is named "The Windy City" because of the weather, the actual term is derived as a jab at historically corrupt politicians blowing hot air. Although the show has touched on corruption slightly in the Detective Voight character, it would be interesting to see some political corruption make its way into the script. Adding some politics to Chicago Fire can help to diversify the plot line and focus in on the Voight character and backstory.
Hopefully audiences will not tire of this long-awaited television drama about firemen in Chicago and maybe with the help of a few suggestions, the show will gain some additional viewers.
