Fire Country’s Showrunner Tia Napolitano Departures After Several On-Screen Exits
The Fire Country departures continue as showrunner Tia Napolitano exits following numerous onscreen changes.
“Tia has played a key role in shaping Fire Country, which not only became a leading series but also serves as the cornerstone of a burgeoning universe,” CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach and CBS Studios President David Stapf stated in a joint message to TVLine on January 16. “We appreciate her immense contributions and unyielding efforts, and we’re eager to collaborate with her on upcoming ventures.”
Napolitano expressed her own sentiments, saying, “I am incredibly proud of the last four seasons of Fire Country. A heartfelt thank you to our cast, crew, writers, producers, fans, and, of course, CBS and CBS Studios. It has been a remarkable journey!”
Multiple sources, including Deadline, have reported that a successor to Napolitano has yet to be appointed. She has been part of the show since its CBS debut in 2022. Prior to her departure, Napolitano shared with Us Weekly insights into what the remainder of the fourth season holds.
“[You should] be worried. We have Bode and Tyler inside a fire shelter amid a blaze. Those shelters are designed for one, yet there are two lives within,” shared the executive producer in December 2025. “Jake and his brother are precariously hanging off a cliff. Just look at how many times that vehicle turns over, with heads hitting hard surfaces.”
Napolitano hinted that “those scenarios are not easy to recover from,” adding, “We’ll witness our characters struggle to escape.” She also disclosed that a “huge twist” is on the horizon for the midseason premiere airing on February 27.
“This will drastically alter Bode’s journey. He will earnestly battle to maintain his path of progress and growth that we cherish. Despite his ongoing struggles, he aims to triumph over them and become a person whom Tyler aspires to emulate,” she described. “Bode is a role model. Look how far he has come.”
She added: “Eve will navigate her relationships with the new team at Three Roc. Sharon is gaining independence, and Ruby — her mother — makes her return. There are numerous surprises, twists, and high stakes following the midseason twist.”
Fire Country has faced criticism, especially after season 3 concluded on a cliffhanger, leaving Vince and Sharon’s fates uncertain. Reports surfaced shortly after the April 2025 finale about budget cuts leading to the departures of Billy Burke and Stephanie Arcila.
“This is a fire show. Anyone can exit at any point,” Napolitano remarked to Us in October 2025. “However, while we are losing characters, we are also introducing some exciting guest stars. The show will feature a mix of old faces from Sharon’s past and new arrivals to ignite conflict, secrets, and unexpected twists.”
Napolitano previewed the show’s approach to striking a balance between “spicing things up” and respectfully acknowledging the losses.
“What we are doing is carefully honoring — especially Vince — as Gabriella has moved on to a happy and successful life. She is still part of the story. Yet, we continuously strive to honor Vince while also weaving in hope,” she shared. “As we move forward, the season’s theme focuses on rising from the ashes and recovery.”
Napolitano continued: “How do you recuperate from such events? We will see every character rise to the challenge, celebrating Vince and honoring his sacrifices.”
Fire Country returns to CBS on Friday, February 27, at 9 p.m. ET, with new episodes available for streaming the following day on Paramount+.
