A Devastating Start for Kidd and Severide

Chicago Fire returned with one of its most heartbreaking opening episodes yet. The Season 14 premiere begins with Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) and Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) receiving news that changes everything: Stella has lost the baby. The couple entered the new season filled with hope after their previous adoption heartbreak, but tragedy struck again before they could even process their joy.

Showrunner Andrea Newman explained that the writers wanted to explore how unpredictable family planning can be, especially for first responders. Kidd had quiet fears about motherhood and what it might mean for her identity and career. Now, she must grieve while also dealing with relief she never expected to feel. Newman notes that this emotional conflict will shape the couple’s journey.

But the episode ends with a surprise twist. A social worker arrives at Firehouse 51 with news of a teen in urgent need of a home, reopening the conversation about adoption before the couple is ready.

Ritter Makes a Life-Changing Decision

Elsewhere, Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri) learns that his ex, Dwayne, was shot on duty in New York. Ritter rushes to his side and quickly realizes he may not be ready to lose him again. Over the years, Ritter has been the voice of calm in Firehouse 51, grounding the team and offering reason through chaos. But now, he is preparing to leave Chicago.

Actor Christian Stolte (Mouch) reflected on the deep bond between the characters, reminding viewers that Ritter would not have become a firefighter without Mouch’s support. Violet encourages Ritter to seize his second chance at love, reminding him of her own regrets with Carver.

Newman confirms Ritter will appear at the start of the season but may return later. His absence, she warns, will have ripple effects.

New Firefighter Vasquez Sparks Tension

The premiere also introduces Firehouse 51’s newest firefighter, Sal Vasquez (Brandon Larracuente). His arrival is rocky. He clashes with Kidd almost immediately after acting without orders during a call. Chief Pascal insists Vasquez must stay and hints that this job may be his last chance in the CFD.

Newman promises Vasquez will challenge Kidd’s leadership more than any recruit before him.

A New Dynamic for Mouch and Kidd

After years of working under her command, Mouch is now a fellow lieutenant. He plans to help Kidd navigate Vasquez while enjoying his new authority—along with something he never expected to love: writing incident reports.

Chicago Fire continues to prove that Firehouse 51 is a family built in crisis, rebuilt in grief, and tested in every premiere.