CBS Pulls Fire-Themed Episode Amid California Wildfires

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — CBS has pulled a scheduled repeat of its firefighter drama “Fire Country” out of sensitivity to the ongoing devastation caused by the Southern California wildfires. The episode, originally set to air on Jan. 10, has been replaced with a rerun of “NCIS: Sydney.”

The decision comes as wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles County, killing at least 25 people and displacing tens of thousands. CBS’s Jan. 10 lineup will now feature back-to-back reruns of “NCIS: Sydney” at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m., followed by an encore of “S.W.A.T.” at 10 p.m.

Meanwhile, NBC‘s schedule remains unchanged, with its “One Chicago” franchise returning after a holiday hiatus. A new episode of “Chicago Fire” will air, focusing on Cruz’s past, Severide’s arson class, and Mouch’s search for a victim’s next of kin. ABC‘s Los Angeles-based first responder drama “9-1-1” is on hiatus until March.

“Fire Country,” inspired by co-creator Max Thieriot‘s experiences during the 2017 North Bay fires, follows Bode Donovan, a convict seeking redemption through a prison release firefighting program in Northern California. The show features a star-studded cast, including Billy Burke, Kevin Alejandro, and Diane Farr.

In response to the wildfires, the “Fire Country” cast has released public service announcements (PSAs) urging viewers to support first responders and donate to the American Red Cross. “We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all of the firefighters and first responders who are risking their lives and tirelessly battling the wildfires in Southern California. You are true heroes,” Thieriot said in a PSA.

Cast members Stephanie Arcila and Jules Latimer also shared information on how to help, directing viewers to Red Cross donation sites. Additional PSAs featuring stars from “The Neighborhood,” “Ghosts,” and “NCIS” will air during CBS primetime.

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation reported that more than 1,000 incarcerated individuals are assisting firefighters in combating the flames. “Fire Country” will resume new episodes on Jan. 31, following its fall finale cliffhanger on Dec. 14.