Jocelyn Hudon Dreams of a Chicago Fire and Law & Order: SVU Crossover
On Wednesday, May 21, the series “Chicago Fire” concluded its run, along with “Chicago Med” and “Chicago P.D.”, all slated for another season on NBC from 2025 to 2026. This show offers a glimpse into the work and personal lives of the firefighters and paramedics stationed at Firehouse 51, who bravely put their lives on the line daily to rescue and safeguard Chicago’s citizens. The primary cast includes Taylor Kinney, Miranda Rae Mayo, Dermot Mulroney, Hanako Greensmith, Jocelyn Hudon, Christian Stolte, Joe Miñoso, Daniel Kyri, and Jake Lockett.
Actress Hudson portrays the character of Paramedic Lyla Novak, who made her debut in the series during season 12, episode 9 titled “Something About Her”. Hudson is widely recognized for her roles in shows like When Hope Calls, The Strain, Pixels, and The Order. She has also been seen on various other television networks, including ABC’s 9-1-1 and The Rookie: Feds, NBC’s The Irrational, and CBS’ Criminal Minds.
I had a conversation with Jocelyn Hudon regarding the implications of Ritter leaving on Novak, the state of her character’s relationship with Damon, and which Dick Wolf Universe character she’d prefer to see appear on Chicago Fire.
Hudon Is Curious To See What’s In Store For Novak’s Romantic Life
“He came over for dinner at her and Ritter’s place, so I’m not exactly sure where that’s going.”
According to ScreenRant, since Daniel Kyri is departing from the show, one might wonder what will become of Ritter and Novak, now that they’ve moved in together. What are their plans or next steps?
Jocelyn Hudon: I’m not sure about the details, but Novak is quite adaptable and clever. She’ll likely find a solution to her problem, which may involve searching for a new place to live again. There’s a possibility she’ll revisit this issue and try to locate another residence. Alternatively, she might decide to share an apartment instead. To be honest, I can’t say for certain. However, Novak seems like the type who enjoys having roommates, while I personally prefer living independently.
Are Novak and Damon getting romantically involved, yet maintaining a casual approach? What are your thoughts or expectations regarding their relationship?
Jocelyn Hudon: I’m unsure about their relationship status as he seemed to have subtly ended things with her in an episode, but she’s still present. They’re currently friends and were seen together at the hospital. He visited their home for dinner, so it’s unclear where this is heading. Additionally, many fans speculate a romance between Novak and Frost from Med, so I can’t predict the direction their relationship might take.
Do you have a team?
Jocelyn Hudon: Although I don’t work with a team, I’m thrilled about watching the upcoming episodes and observing where the writers lead us. I’m fully supportive of their decisions, and I eagerly anticipate each new episode, exclaiming “Oh, fantastic!” as I watch.
I love a good will-they-won’t-they relationship, so I could see that for her and Damon.
Jocelyn Hudon: I would love a drawn-out long situation where we try to figure it out.
Hudon Wants To Learn More About Why Novak Became A Paramedic
“That’s what makes her so great at her job, because I think a trauma affected her in real life.”
In Season 13, we got a glimpse into Novak’s history. Are there chances we might uncover more about her in Season 14?
Jocelyn Hudon: I’m eagerly anticipating the reveal of her past, as there are many questions lingering in my mind. The creators have done a fantastic job piquing our interest about her history, and I can’t help but wonder more about where she originated, where she aims to go, what her journey entails, and the details of her story. I am deeply curious to uncover what transpired in her life. I look forward to learning more about her background.
Are there any particular questions you might be curious about regarding Novak, queries that the show has not addressed so far and you’d love to find out more?
Jocelyn Hudon: I’m curious, in Episode 8 when the character takes her own life, which deeply upset her, I wonder if this event had a personal impact on her. Was it a relative like her mom, dad, or someone close to her that she lost to suicide—I would be interested to know.
I’m curious about the incident she experienced early in her life that led her to become a paramedic. I believe it was a traumatic event that deeply impacted her and helped shape her into an exceptional professional in this field.
Did the writers give you any extra backstory when you booked the role of Novak?
Jocelyn Hudon: Regardless of what’s added to it, I simply play my part. When I tried out for the role, it was during season 12, and I only had two significant scenes. It was exceptionally well-balanced as we witnessed her being both lively, carefree, and a bit wild, yet lighthearted.
Reflecting on that initial episode, it was evident how deeply she values her role and demonstrates compassion and care towards both her job and colleagues. This portrayal provided me with a rich foundation for developing the character, offering a comprehensive and nuanced depiction.
Hudon Hopes Novak Can Interact With Law & Order: SVU’s Olivia Benson
“I want her to work with Olivia Benson [from] Law & Order: SVU. That’s my dream. I have a picture of her in my trailer.”
If you were writing an episode of Chicago Fire, is there a storyline you’d write for Novak?
Jocelyn Hudon: Absolutely. I have two ideas. One of them is creating an episode centered around water, as I am a scuba diver. So, imagine a scenario where they require a paramedic to go underwater. In such a case, I’d excitedly exclaim, “That’s me! My moment has arrived. Push me into the water!
I’m keen on organizing a water-themed episode. We had quite a blast with one similar in the past. Furthermore, I have an idea for a scene where the ambulance gets held up or robbed. In this scenario, Violet and Novak would need to bravely fend off the robbers.
This version maintains the original meaning while using more natural and easy-to-read language.
Is there a specific character from the Dick Wolf Universe, whether they’re still living or not, that you imagine Novak could have had an interesting conversation with, given all the characters available?
My hope is that Olivia Benson from Law & Order: SVU collaborates with someone named Jocelyn Hudon. This dream of mine involves a scene in which they work together. I have an image of her in my trailer as a reminder. I am a huge fan of Law & Order: SVU, and I believe it would be fantastic if there was some way for these characters, Novak and Benson, to engage. The thought of such an interaction makes me ecstatic. If this were to happen, I could pass away contentedly. I’d love to say something like, “Here’s what transpired!” and she would respond, “I’ll take it from here,” followed by my excited reply, “Excellent!
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About Chicago Fire Season 13
From Renowned Emmy Award-Winning Executive Producer Dick Wolf
Under the leadership of Lieutenant Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney), the members of Rescue Squad 3 regularly collaborate with Lieutenants Christopher Herrmann (David Eigenberg) from Engine 51 and Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) on Truck 81. Sharing a relentless, unyielding spirit, they develop a strong bond – the firefighters of Firehouse 51 are not just colleagues, but a tightly-knit family.
The fire station now has a new head, Chief Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney), taking over from Wallace Boden who was promoted to Deputy Commissioner. Pascal, with his decade-long experience as a chief in Miami, brings a distinct leadership approach that might not be popular with everyone. However, his unflappable demeanor during emergencies and commitment to ensuring the station functions efficiently while preparing firefighters for any challenges they may face are evident from the start.
Check out our other One Chicago interviews:
- Showrunner Gwen Sigan (Chicago P.D.)
- Eamonn Walker (Chicago Fire)
- Joe Miñoso (Chicago Fire)
- Luke Mitchell (Chicago Med)
- Shawn Hatosy (Chicago P.D.)
- Steven Weber (Chicago Med)
Chicago Fire season 13 is available to stream on Peacock.
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2025-05-26 04:10