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The Future of Kelly Severide: What Lies Ahead in Chicago Fire Season 13
For fans of Chicago Fire, Kelly Severide has long been a central figure, embodying bravery and leadership as one of Firehouse 51’s finest. Over the past two years, however, concerns about Taylor Kinney’s future on the show have kept fans on edge. Between his extended absences and the uncertainty surrounding his character, Severide’s fate in the series has been a rollercoaster. Fortunately, recent updates have brought a wave of relief: Kinney is set to return as Severide in Chicago Fire Season 13, which is slated to premiere in the fall of 2024.
Taylor Kinney’s Absence and the Ripple Effect
During the latter half of Season 11, Kinney took a leave of absence from the show due to personal reasons, which NBC publicly acknowledged. To address his sudden departure, the writers sent Severide off to an OFI training camp in Alabama. His extended absence, however, required further explanation, leading to a subplot involving Severide joining an ATF investigation. The storyline created tension not only within the firehouse but also between Severide and his wife, Stella Kidd, leaving fans speculating about a possible exit for the beloved character.
These concerns intensified as Kinney’s character didn’t return for the Season 11 finale. Although he reappeared in Season 12, rumors about his potential departure persisted, fueled by the challenges Severide faced in both his personal and professional life. His obsession with arson investigations and the strain it placed on his marriage only added to the speculation.
The Return of a Central Figure
Despite the uncertainty, Kinney is officially back for Season 13, and all signs point to a renewed focus on Severide. NBC’s promotional poster for the new season prominently features him at the forefront, climbing a firetruck ladder with his colleagues following behind. This imagery sends a clear message: Kelly Severide remains an integral part of Firehouse 51’s story.
Fans can now look forward to seeing Severide’s character fully reintegrated into the narrative, with multiple storylines teased for the upcoming episodes. His return is a welcome reassurance, especially after a challenging Season 12 that saw several original cast members exit the show, including Kara Killmer and Eamonn Walker.
What’s Next for Severide in Season 13?
Season 13 promises to deliver significant developments for Severide, both in his personal life and his role within Firehouse 51. One of the major storylines will revolve around his reaction to the firehouse’s new chief, Dom Pascal. As teased in a brief promotional trailer, Severide is skeptical of Pascal’s leadership and the changes he plans to implement. His hesitation sets the stage for potential conflict, as Severide’s instincts often prove to be accurate.
Beyond the professional challenges, Severide’s personal life will take center stage with the introduction of a half-brother, Jack Damon, revealed during the Season 12 finale. This discovery forces Severide to confront unresolved issues tied to his late father, Benny. Showrunner Andrea Newman hinted that Season 13 would be a “haunted” season, where characters face their pasts. For Severide, his complicated relationship with Benny and his new half-brother will undoubtedly bring emotional weight to the season.
Meanwhile, the finale also left a significant question unanswered: Severide’s desire to start a family. In a heartfelt moment, he told Kidd he was ready to take that next step, but her response was left ambiguous. This unresolved tension will likely play a major role in their storyline, adding another layer of complexity to Severide’s journey.
A Season of Reconnection and Renewal
| Chicago Fire Season 13 Cast | Role |
|---|---|
| Taylor Kinney | Kelly Severide |
| Miranda Rae Mayo | Stella Kidd |
| David Eigenberg | Christopher Herrmann |
| Christian Stolte | Randall “Mouch” McHolland |
| Joe Minoso | Joe Cruz |
| Daniel Kyri | Darren Ritter |
| Hanako Greensmith | Violet Mikami |
| Jocelyn Hudon | Lyla Novak |
| Dermot Mulroney | Dom Pascal |
| Jake Lockett | Sam Carver |
| Michael Bradway | Jack Damon |
| KaDee Strickland | Monica Pascal |
With Severide back at the forefront, Chicago Fire Season 13 appears poised to explore the character’s growth and resilience. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of a new chief, addressing long-buried family issues, or working through marital challenges, Severide’s arc promises to be as compelling as ever.
Taylor Kinney’s return as Severide is more than just a relief for fans—it’s a testament to the character’s enduring importance to the show. As Chicago Fire continues its legacy as a cornerstone of NBC’s One Chicago universe, Severide’s presence ensures that the firehouse remains grounded in the qualities that have made the series a success: loyalty, courage, and heart.
For now, fans can breathe easy knowing that Kelly Severide is here to stay. Season 13 will undoubtedly deliver drama, tension, and heartfelt moments, with Severide leading the charge as Firehouse 51 faces new challenges together. The wait for the next chapter may feel long, but it’s clear that the Dempsey Challenge firefighter isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Plus, season 12 ended with Severide telling Kidd he was ready to start a family. The episode never showed Kidd’s response to her husband’s revelation, and it’s possible that she might not be on the same page as Severide. Only time will tell what’s truly in store for Severide’s story in Chicago Fire season 13, though.
