Though the series tackles some incredibly heavy themes such as loss, grief, alcoholism, and generational trauma, Rescue Me also has many moments of lighthearted comedy, offering a surprisingly well-rounded look into the lives and work of actual firefighters.

Several cast members actually served as firemen before joining Rescue Me, and Denis Leary famously has family members who work in fire departments in his home state of Massachusetts.

This industry knowledge and compassion for real first responders helps the series to address 9/11 and other tragedies with the respect and dignity that they deserve, without ever feeling preachy or obnoxious.