In the latest episode of CBS's hit series Fire Country, actor Jordan Calloway not only portrayed his character Jake Crawford but also stepped behind the camera for his directorial debut. The episode, which aired on Friday, November 7, centered on Jake's bid to become Cal Fire Battalion Chief, a position that ultimately went to Manny, played by Kevin Alejandro. Calloway, speaking exclusively to Us Weekly, opened up about the challenges of directing while navigating his character's emotional turmoil, offering insights into Jake's future and his own aspirations in filmmaking.
The episode highlighted tensions within the team, particularly between Jake and Bode, portrayed by Max Thieriot. Bode, still grappling with his father's death and a near-relapse, clashed with Jake during a critical moment, contributing to Jake's failure to secure the promotion. According to Calloway, this development forces Jake to confront personal shortcomings, but it also sets the stage for growth. "Jake, he’s a big softie. He has a lot of heart, which is one of the things that makes Jake who he is," Calloway told Us Weekly. He emphasized that despite the setback, Jake remains committed to the team, hinting at a unifying challenge ahead.
Calloway, 35, described the directing experience as both exhausting and rewarding. He credited his cast and crew for making the process manageable, drawing parallels to his background in sports. "The one thing that I learned is that it is so good to trust and lean on your team," he said. "Having played sports helped tremendously, because as a team captain you know the different players that you can count on to step up in certain times." This teamwork was evident on set, where advice from colleagues encouraged him to imprint his vision on the episode without rushing.
The best advice I received on set was I would hear, “Tell your story and don’t be afraid to leave your mark on here. There is the tone of the show, but also tell your story. Get in there and do it. But do it how you see it and don’t rush.” That was very helpful, because I do remember at one point I was so worried and consumed about the time. I was on camera and we had gotten the shot, and they asked, “Are you ready to go?” I was like, “I guess I’m ready to go.” But Quincy [Paglaro], our A camera operator, he was like, “Are you sure? This is a shot that you really wanted, and I think you should go see it through.” That’s what I mean by my team having my back.
Directing wasn't always part of Calloway's plan. He studied cinematic production in school and minored in screenwriting, initially aiming to become a writer or showrunner. His parents, however, predicted his potential as a director. "I originally never thought about directing. It was my parents that were the ones that were like, ‘You’re going to be a good director.’ I didn’t think so," Calloway explained. The opportunity arose with Fire Country after a previous show, Black Lightning, ended before he could direct there.
Now hooked on directing, Calloway expressed enthusiasm for more opportunities. "It’s just another vehicle as a creative and as a storyteller to just tell a story," he said. "I hope they call me back. I hope the audience enjoys it. I hope they feel the emotion that I’m trying to emote through the characters. I hope my actors feel as if I told their story to its fullest as it should be." His debut episode, packed with emotional depth, showcased his ability to balance acting and directing duties seamlessly.
On screen, Jake's storyline took a dramatic turn with the job snub. Calloway teased that this isn't the end for Jake, dispelling fears of his departure from the show. "I’m totally joking with you, by the way. I’m fine and he’s going to be here. He’ll work through it, he’ll get his s*** together," he assured. The episode ended with Jake displaying humility, recognizing the need for unity amid a new crisis involving a mysterious note tied to the Leone family.
The note's significance promises to shake the core of the series. Calloway hinted at its explosive impact: "We’re going to find out. I’m not going to ruin anything, but I think this new problem is a major nuke that is just about to rock the entire family. If we know Vince and how much he loved Sharon, I don’t see it. But that’s just my opinion." This development comes amid changes in the cast, with Billy Burke and Stephanie Arcila, who play Vince and Gabriela, exiting the show.
Calloway reflected on the absences, noting the shift in dynamics. "It was a huge blow losing them. It’s a change in the dynamic. But at the same time, we wish them well and we miss them," he said. "I just love meeting new artists that have their own commitment to the craft and just come show up and just crush it." Despite the losses, the series continues to evolve, introducing fresh elements to keep the narrative engaging.
Playing Jake, often the voice of reason opposite the impulsive Bode, presents its own challenges. Calloway described the frustration but underscored their deep bond: "It becomes frustrating at times — obviously — but these two have such a bond that goes back to diapers. I know this dude is gonna be who he is but I know his heart and his intention, so I will be there to always pick him up." This longstanding friendship anchors much of the show's drama, rooted in the fictional town of Edgewater, California, where firefighters battle blazes and personal demons.
Looking ahead, Calloway teased Jake's journey toward self-discovery. "Now that he’s no longer going to be the BC, he’s past that crossroad of the heartbreak. He’s also learning and he’ll get to a place where he’s learning something new within himself," he said. "He realizes that there are areas in his life that he didn’t take care of and they are individuals that he didn’t help." This introspection could lead Jake to address neglected aspects of his life, including relationships within his inner circle.
Calloway has ideas for Jake's arc, drawing from real-life issues faced by first responders. "A request is to let me get to Sheriff Country. Maybe we want to see Jake go a little dark. Maybe he falls into something that he needs to be saved from," he suggested. "I’m a huge fan of telling truthful stories that first responders deal with. I have a number of friends that are first responders, and one of the things that I would love to talk about is the mental struggles and the issues that these first responders deal with, from things that they have seen and how important their core circle is."
Fire Country, now in its third season, has captivated audiences with its blend of high-stakes firefighting and personal stories. Created by Max Thieriot, who also stars as Bode, the series draws inspiration from his own hometown experiences. The show has seen cast changes, with some stars like Diane Farr (Sharon) departing, but it continues to explore themes of redemption, family, and resilience.
As the season progresses, the mysterious note and its ties to the Leone family could redefine relationships on the show. Calloway's directorial debut adds a layer of behind-the-scenes intrigue, potentially paving the way for more episodes under his guidance. Fans eager for more can look forward to how Jake navigates these challenges, with Calloway committed to authentic storytelling.
The broader implications for Fire Country include maintaining its momentum amid cast shifts. With Calloway's multifaceted role, the series demonstrates its depth, blending on-screen drama with real creative growth. As Jake unites with Bode and others against the new threat, the show promises more emotional firepower in episodes to come.