Taylor Kinney’s Chicago Fire Future Is Finally Settled — Severide’s Staying Put
After months of speculation and behind-the-scenes whispers, Chicago Fire fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Taylor Kinney, who plays the beloved Kelly Severide, isn’t going anywhere. NBC has officially confirmed his return through the show’s Season 13 campaign, and the signs couldn’t be clearer — Severide is back where he belongs, leading Firehouse 51.
A Rocky Hiatus That Sparked Endless Rumors
Kinney’s unexpected leave of absence during Season 11 left fans fearing the worst. His final appearance that season came in Episode 14, when the show sent Severide off to Alabama for OFI training. Behind the scenes, the actor stepped away to handle personal matters, and as the episodes rolled on without him, viewers began to wonder if the firefighter’s story had quietly ended.
When Severide missed the Season 11 finale and later reappeared mid–Season 12, the writers leaned into the tension, creating friction between Severide and wife Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo). His obsession with arson investigations and secretive missions sparked fresh speculation about a permanent exit.
Season 13’s Poster Confirms Severide’s Future
NBC has now silenced the rumors with one bold image. The newly released Season 13 promotional poster places Severide front and center, literally leading his team up a ladder toward a roaring blaze. Behind him stand Kidd, Cruz, and Herrmann, with Violet and Novak looking up from below — a symbolic reminder that Severide is once again the heartbeat of the firehouse.
Given NBC’s strategic marketing, there’s no mistaking the message: you don’t put an actor front and center if he’s leaving. In fact, Season 12’s finale hinted at more growth for Severide, setting the stage for deeper dives into both his leadership and his marriage.
Why Fans Can Finally Relax
After nearly two years of uncertainty, Taylor Kinney’s place in Chicago Fire is secure. His reemergence in the Season 13 campaign and storyline direction confirm that Severide remains the emotional and moral core of the series.
Firehouse 51 has weathered many storms, but none hit harder than the thought of losing Severide. Thankfully, fans can now rest easy — Kelly’s here to stay, ready to kick down doors and lead the charge once again.