Joe Minoso of Chicago Fire and former cast member Yuriy Sardarov reunite on the screen for the first time since Sardarov’s departure from the NBC drama. The two actors are teaming up on the new short film Long Lost.
The project brings together the actors whose portrayal of Joe Cruz and Brian ‘Otis’ Zvonecek created one of Chicago Fire‘s most memorable friendships. While viewers haven’t seen the pair share the screen since Sardarov’s emotional exit from the series in 2019, Long Lost marks a new chapter for the longtime collaborators.
Producer Erick Juarez announced the reunion during production in an Instagram post, writing: “Seeing Joe Minoso and Yuriy Sardarov reunite on the set of Long Lost brought smiles all around. There’s something special about watching longtime collaborators create together again, and we can’t wait for you to see what they’re making.”
Beyond the reunion, Long Lost, which recently wrapped a week-long production, also showcases Minoso in the director’s chair in addition to starring as Ernesto. Sardarov plays ICE Agent Ford.
Few details about the story have been released, although the filmmakers have revealed that Long Lost centers on two brothers. With production now complete, additional information, including a release date and festival plans, is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
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For longtime Chicago Fire viewers, the reunion is certain to spark interest. Cruz and Otis formed one of the series’ defining friendships during its early seasons, bringing humor, loyalty and heart to Firehouse 51. Their bond made Otis’ death one of the show’s most emotional moments and left a lasting impression on audiences.
Now, seven years after they last appeared together on screen, Minoso and Sardarov are collaborating once again. This time, they’re stepping into an entirely new story, one that gives Chicago audiences another opportunity to watch two familiar talents work together in an independent production.
