**Chicago Fire’s Jocelyn Hudon Talks Novak’s Journey So Far and What’s Next in Season 14**
Although *Chicago Fire* may currently be on hiatus, actress Jocelyn Hudon recently spoke with PopCulture.com about her character Lyla “Lizzy” Novak’s journey on the NBC drama. Hudon, who joined the series in Season 12 as Ambulance 61’s newest paramedic, has seen Novak evolve through romance, family drama, and new challenges at work.
### From Recurring Role to Series Regular
Initially appearing as a recurring character, Hudon was promoted to series regular in Season 13. While Novak originally considered staying a floater, Violet (Hanako Greensmith) convinced her to make 51 Firehouse her permanent home due to their great teamwork.
### Exploring Novak’s Family Background
Season 14 introduced Novak’s estranged sister, shedding light on the complexity of her family life. Jocelyn shared her excitement about delving deeper into Novak’s background.
“I was so excited to hear about the sister and background storyline. The casting was amazing, and it wasn’t what I expected,” she said. “Novak is usually the fun, lighthearted, work-hard, play-hard character. Seeing her switch to a more motherly, in-control role was really interesting and fun to do. It made a lot of sense and filled in many gaps in her backstory.”
When asked about the possibility of seeing more family members, Hudon expressed hope to explore that further.
“I hope so! They mentioned a brother, so I was like, ‘Do I get to meet him?’ I’d love to see more of the sister and hopefully the brother — that would be really cool.”
### The New Paramedic Pilot Program
This season, Novak and Violet have launched a new paramedic pilot program, involving firefighters training for ambulance work. Jocelyn highlighted the enjoyment of having other characters join Ambulance 61.
“It was really fun to have Capp (Randy Flagler) on the Ambo. I really wish I had been there when Vasquez (Brandon Larracuente) was on it,” Hudon remarked. “I think it’s a great idea because firefighters do have training to be on the ambulance with us. I hope the audience gets to see different characters coming in and out of the Ambo — that would be really fun.”
Hudon also revealed that Novak has had more scenes with Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) this season, which she’s thoroughly enjoyed.
### Crossing Over to *Chicago Med*
Novak’s story doesn’t stay confined to *Chicago Fire*. Hudon discussed the character’s crossover into *Chicago Med*, especially her developing relationship with Frost (Darren Barnet).
“Darren and I are best friends in real life, so acting with him is so much fun. We hang out in trailers and go to crafty together,” she shared. “It’s cool to work in the same world but on two shows. I’ve gotten to know their crew really well, and I enjoy working with different directors and writers.”
Regarding what’s next for Novak and Frost, Hudon coyly commented, “I don’t know what I can say, but I’m not gonna say no.”
### Novak and Vasquez’s Relationship
On *Chicago Fire*, Novak is also growing closer to Vasquez, whose complicated family history mirrors her own. Hudon commented on their bond:
“I think Novak and Vasquez bonded immediately. She recognizes the family history in him and sees him as a true confidant — someone who won’t judge him and understands him deeply. I don’t know where that’s going, but I think they’ll be tight for a long time.”
### Surprises and What’s Next for Novak
Working on Season 14’s Episode 7, which focused on Novak’s siblings, brought unexpected growth for Hudon’s character.
“Playing the kind of in-charge mother hen was a stretch and showed a different side of Novak that she doesn’t reveal at the firehouse. That was really interesting, and I’d love to explore it more.”
Looking ahead, Hudon teased exciting developments in Novak’s personal life.
“There’s some great love and trust action for Novak this season. I personally still don’t know where it’s going, but I’m very excited. Every new script I get, I tear into it trying to figure out what will happen. I’ve been loving the developments in her love-and-trust world.”
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*Chicago Fire* returns with new episodes on Wednesday, January 7, at 9 p.m. ET on NBC, with streaming available the next day on Peacock.
https://popculture.com/tv-shows/news/chicago-fire-star-jocelyn-hudon-reflects-on-playing-novak-and-weighs-in-on-her-season-14-storylines-exclusive/