The very essence of the “One Chicago” franchise lies in its monumental crossover events, an integral part of its storytelling DNA that sets it apart in the landscape of network television. These thrilling convergences, where the lives and cases of Chicago’s firefighters, police officers, and medical professionals intertwine, are akin to an annual “Avengers: Endgame” for fans, showcasing the deep connections between the city’s first responders. This beloved tradition is set to continue, promising exciting new narratives and character interactions for Fall 2025.

Anticipation is building for the upcoming slate of crossovers, particularly those planned between Chicago Fire season 14 and Chicago Med season 11. While not slated as a single, massive franchise-wide event, Chicago Fire showrunner Andrea Newman has confirmed that viewers can expect “a bunch of” mini-crossovers. At the heart of these interconnected storylines will be Lizzie Novak, one of Firehouse 51’s dedicated paramedics, whose increased presence within Chicago Med is poised to create intriguing new dynamics.

Novak’s frequent appearances at Gaffney Medical Center are a natural extension of her profession. As a paramedic, her duties regularly take her to the hospital’s emergency department, transporting patients and coordinating care. However, showrunners have hinted at reasons for her increased Med appearances that extend beyond routine patient drop-offs. One prevalent theory among fans points towards a budding romantic connection with a character from Chicago Med, specifically Frost. Such a development would not only inject fresh energy into the franchise but also resurrect a long-dormant “cross-show romance” tradition within the One Chicago universe.

Lizzie Novak, known for her sharp wit and compassionate demeanor, has carved out a distinct role within the close-knit family of Firehouse 51. Her journey from a new recruit to an integral part of the team has been marked by resilience in high-pressure situations and unwavering commitment to her patients. Exploring her personal life, especially in a relationship that bridges two emergency services, could offer new insights into her character and expand her narrative beyond the confines of fire and rescue calls. While the exact nature of Frost’s character on Chicago Med is yet to be fully revealed in relation to this crossover, the potential for a new dynamic between these two worlds is significant.

Historically, One Chicago has embraced the drama and charm of inter-show relationships. While the franchise boasts iconic “inter-show” romances like Stellaride (Kelly Severide and Stella Kidd from Chicago Fire), its cross-show relationships—those between characters from different series—have always held a unique allure.

The most celebrated example is Randall “Mouch” McHolland from Chicago Fire and Sergeant Trudy Platt from Chicago P.D. Their relationship, which began in Chicago Fire season 2 and led to their marriage at the end of season 4, remains a fan favorite. Mouch, the gruff but lovable veteran firefighter, found his perfect match in Trudy, the no-nonsense desk sergeant. Their dynamic, filled with humor and mutual support, provides a stable anchor for both series, proving that love can indeed thrive across different departments and narrative structures. They represent the gold standard for cross-show romances, demonstrating that such pairings can become cornerstones of the franchise, underscoring the foundational unity of the One Chicago universe.

Beyond Mouch and Trudy, other significant cross-show romances have left their mark. Kelly Severide, Chicago Fire’s charismatic Squad Lieutenant, had a notable relationship with Erin Lindsay, a detective from Chicago P.D. Their on-again, off-again romance explored the challenges of two fiercely independent individuals navigating high-stakes careers. Though it ultimately didn’t last, it significantly impacted both characters’ arcs. Severide also had a fling with April Sexton, a childhood friend who first appeared in Chicago Fire before becoming a prominent nurse in Chicago Med, further intertwining the medical and fire worlds.

Gabriela “Gabby” Dawson, a paramedic and firefighter from Chicago Fire, shared a fleeting but intense connection with Jay Halstead, who became a detective in Chicago P.D. Their paths diverged, but it demonstrated the potential for personal connections to spring up between various branches of Chicago’s emergency services. Gabby’s brother, Antonio Dawson, a detective from Chicago P.D., also dated Sylvie Brett, a paramedic from Chicago Fire, for a period in P.D.’s sixth season. Their relationship, navigating family ties, professional dangers, and differing life goals, ultimately concluded with their amicable separation.

These cross-show romances, whether fleeting or enduring, are a source of constant fascination for viewers. They provide unique opportunities for character development, allowing audiences to see beloved figures in different contexts and interact with new personalities. The novelty of characters from disparate series meeting and forming a bond strengthens the illusion of a vibrant, interconnected city. It highlights the central premise of One Chicago: that these individuals, despite their separate uniforms, are all part of the same extended family, facing the same city’s challenges. The excitement stems from the organic way these relationships often develop, born out of shared emergencies, professional respect, or unexpected social encounters. While logistical challenges often mean that these romances are temporary, their impact is no less significant, adding depth and complexity to the characters’ lives.

Given this rich history, the potential romance between Novak and Frost holds significant promise. While many cross-show relationships in One Chicago have proven temporary, even temporary flings serve a valuable narrative purpose, offering a change of pace and introducing new interpersonal dynamics. The writers have established that Novak has not been seeking a serious relationship, and Frost likewise appears unburdened by the pursuit of a long-term commitment. This shared understanding could set the stage for a compelling, perhaps more casual, romance that respects both characters’ independence while delivering engaging emotional content.

Such a storyline could explore the nuances of a relationship between two individuals dedicated to their respective, yet intertwined, professions. How would their work schedules, the high stress of their jobs, and their differing departmental cultures influence their burgeoning connection? Would they find solace in shared experiences, or would the pressures of their lives prove an insurmountable obstacle? The possibility of their romance being a temporary one, much like many of their predecessors, aligns with the practicalities of television production while still providing ample dramatic potential. It allows for exploration of chemistry and character development without demanding a permanent narrative shift across two series.

Looking ahead to Chicago Fire season 14 and Chicago Med season 11, these mini-crossovers, centered around Lizzie Novak, represent an exciting evolution of the One Chicago formula. They signify a commitment to the franchise’s core strength: its interconnectedness. By focusing on a character like Novak, whose daily responsibilities naturally bridge the gap between firefighting and emergency medicine, the writers are poised to deliver a narrative that is both authentic to the world of first responders and rich in personal drama. Whether her journey leads to a lasting love, a meaningful temporary connection, or simply a deeper professional understanding between Firehouse 51 and Gaffney Medical, Novak’s central role ensures that the pulse of One Chicago will beat stronger than ever in the fall of 2025. This return to a tradition of more frequent, character-driven crossovers promises to further solidify the franchise’s unique appeal, continuing to showcase Chicago’s heroes in their interconnected glory.