The Evolution of Kelly Severide and Stella Kidd's Relationship: A Journey through the Ups and Downs
Explore the captivating journey of Kelly Severide and Stella Kidd's relationship in 'Chicago Fire' Witness their ups and downs, from fiery beginnings to a proposal, as Taylor Kinney and Miranda Rae Mayo bring these characters to life Dive into their evolving bond now!
Throughout its duration, Chicago Fire has featured passionate romances, but none match the depth of Kelly Severide's connection with Stella Kidd. When Kelly, portrayed by Taylor Kinney, was introduced to fans, he was a rugged firefighter with a reputation as a ladies' man. However, the entrance of Stella, played by Miranda Rae Mayo, in season 4 disrupted the status quo and had a positive impact on Kelly.
The couple has faced numerous challenges, including a time in season 9 when Kelly distances himself from Stella as she prepares for her lieutenant’s exam.
“I don’t need your help with a test. I needed you to do what you do best: To tell me, ‘You got this, Stella Kidd,’” Stella says. He responds, “Your determination is exactly why I know you got this, Stella Kidd, and it’s why I know how badly I messed up, and it’s why I’m never going to let you leave me again.”
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Scroll down to relive all of Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide’s relationship highs and lows:
Credit: Adrian S. Burrows Sr./NBC
Chicago Fire’s Kelly Severide and Stella Kidd’s Relationship Timeline: Relive the Characters' Ups and Downs
Chicago Fire has been filled with red-hot romances throughout its run, but nothing compares to Kelly Severide’s relationship with Stella Kidd.
Upon fans' initial introduction to Kelly, portrayed by Taylor Kinney, he was portrayed as a rugged firefighter with a reputation as a womanizer. However, the entrance of Stella, played by Miranda Rae Mayo, in season 4 brought about significant changes in Kelly's character for the better.
Throughout their relationship, the pair has faced numerous challenges, including a notable moment in season 9 when Kelly distances himself from Stella while she is preparing for her lieutenant's exam.
"I didn't need your help with the test. I just needed to hear you say, 'You got this, Stella Kidd,'" Stella tells him. He responds, "It's your attitude that makes me believe in you, Stella Kidd. It's also why I know how much I messed up and why I won't let you go again."
Catch Chicago Fire on NBC on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET.
Scroll down to relive all of Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide’s relationship highs and lows:
Credit: NBC
Stella Joins Firehouse 51
Stella becomes the newest member of Truck 81 at Firehouse 51 in season 4, episode 15 of Chicago Fire. It is evident in "Bad For the Soul" that she and Kelly have a history, but they choose to keep it private.
Credit: NBC
Their History Revealed
They first crossed paths during their time at the academy, long before she joined the team at Firehouse 51. Their backstory was eventually disclosed in season 4, episode 18, “On the Warpath,” while they were at Randal “Mouch” McHolland’s (Christian Stolte) wedding.
Stella recounted the moment during the April 2016 episode saying, “I was returning home after a late-night tactical training course at the academy. The moon was shining bright that night, and as soon as I unlocked my door, I heard a noise coming from the roof. I glanced up and there was Severide, rappelling down from my skylight while singing [Frank] Sinatra's ‘This Love Of Mine’ with a rose in his mouth. He had been pining after me for weeks.” What Kelly was unaware of at the time was that Stella was married when he made his dramatic romantic gesture.
Luckily, no legal action was taken for his trespassing. "I managed to convince Grant not to involve the police. Kelly left, and the following day, he approached me and said, 'Thanks, I owe you one,'" Stella recounts, to which Kelly responds, "I still owe you, I suppose."
Credit: NBC
First Kiss
Kelly and Stella share a moment of intense chemistry in season 4, episode 21 of the show, which aired in May 2016. After convincing Christopher Herrmann to invest in an ice maker for Molly's bar, Stella finds herself in a mess when the machine malfunctions. Thankfully, Kelly arrives in the nick of time to save the day and they share their first kiss.
Their passionate moment in the back room is brief but significant for fans of their relationship. In a later episode, during the season 4 finale, the pair takes their romance to the next level by sleeping together at Stella's apartment as a way to blow off steam after a fellow firefighter's funeral. Little do they know, Stella's ex-husband is lurking in her apartment.
Credit: Peacock
Stella’s Ex Causes Problems
The start of Season 5 was marked by a chilling episode, as Stella's former husband, Grant (Guy Burnet), begins to stalk her just as her relationship with Kelly begins to intensify. Tensions reach a breaking point when Grant assaults Stella outside Molly's, prompting Kelly to intervene and defend her by stabbing him.
After Grant safely makes it out of surgery in season 5, episode 2, the story line picks up. Although Stella convinces Grant to voluntarily commit himself into a rehab program, she chooses not to press charges for attempted murder. The choice causes tension between Stella and Kelly, and their romantic relationship ends before really getting started.
Credit: NBC
Roomies
At the start of season 6, Stella moves in with Kelly after a crash. During her stay, she is secretly submitted for a different position, resulting in her transfer out of Firehouse 51. Despite seeing other people, Stella and Kelly begin to realize their mutual feelings for each other.
Credit: NBC
Officially Dating
The roommates officially start dating during season 6, episode 15’s “The Chance to Forgive.”
"Kelly, I understand that English isn't your first language, but something's been off with you since Otis got hurt. Can you just tell me how you're feeling?" Stella asks him at Molly's. After a brief pause, Kelly leans in to kiss her, marking the start of their official romance.
However, their relationship is tested when Stella meets Kelly’s mom, who isn’t welcoming. In season 6, Stella chooses to move out and live in Herrmann’s attic apartment to move their relationship forward. Around the same time, Kelly’s ex, Renee (Sarah Shahi), returns to town and monopolizes his time with a case.
By the time episode 19, titled "Where I Want to Be," rolls around, the couple has managed to stabilize their relationship even while living in different places. "Wherever you are, is where I want to be," Kelly assures Stella after visiting her new residence.
Credit: NBC
Kelly’s Mourns the Loss of Benny
Following the death of Kelly’s father, Benny (Treat Williams), in season 7, episode 7, the firefighter's emotional state begins to deteriorate. In the episode "What Will Define You," Kelly isolates himself from Stella and his loved ones as he struggles to cope with the loss of his father.
Credit: NBC
Splitsville
Kelly is grieving the loss of his father when Stella's childhood friend, Tyler (played by Tye White), arrives in town and further strains the couple's relationship. In one pivotal scene, Tyler expresses his love for Stella, leading to a surprising revelation for her and intensifying her anger towards Kelly, who had warned her about Tyler.
In the season 7 finale, episode 8 titled "The Solution to Everything," Stella addresses her concerns with Kelly, accusing him of pushing her away. Ultimately, she decides to end their relationship, telling him, "I love you, but I can't continue to be with you."
Credit: NBC
Rekindled Romance
Throughout season 7, the duo remains partners, yet it becomes evident that their relationship requires significant improvement before they can rekindle their romance. In episode 22 of season 7, titled “I’m Not Leaving You,” Stella pays a visit to Kelly at his father’s cabin, only to be taken aback by the profound personal transformation he has undergone.
"You deserve a better man than me. So, I made a decision. I made a decision, I’m going to be the man you deserve," he declares as he opens the door. The two share a kiss before Stella follows him into the forest getaway.
Credit: NBC
The Speech
The firefighters had enjoyed a season of happiness living together in season 8 alongside Matt Casey. However, in the beginning of season 9, they encountered a setback. Kelly discovered that some of the men in the CFD believed that Stella’s advancement in her career was due to her relationship with him. In an attempt to help her focus, Kelly distanced himself from Stella. This plan, however, had unintended consequences as Stella began to doubt Kelly's feelings for her and her own abilities. In season 9, episode 6, “Blow This Up,” Kelly had to reassure Stella that despite his recent actions, he was committed to their relationship and her success.
“You always have this attitude, Stella Kidd, that’s why I have full confidence in you. It also reminds me of my mistakes and ensures that I won’t let you leave me again,” Kelly says after Stella expresses her frustration with his absence.
Stella replies, “I’m not letting you make the decisions. Soon, we’ll be equals, so pay attention. I’m the one who won’t let you slip away again.”
Credit: Adrian S. Burrows Sr./NBC
Firey Proposal
In the usual Stellaride manner, the couple becomes engaged while standing in a blazing building. After Stella rescues Kelly during a house fire in season 9's "A White-Knuckle Panic," Kelly kneels down and proposes.
“I don’t want you to ever leave me. Stella Kidd, will you marry me?” he asks. Stella says, “Hell yeah.”
Credit: Adrian Burrows Sr/NBC
Long-Distance Drama
Stella's absence is quite noticeable in season 10 as she travels to various states to establish her Girls on Fire program in different firehouses. In the "Winterfest" episode, Kelly realizes that he hasn't heard much from his fiancée, leading him to question the status of their relationship.
Credit: NBC
Stella Gets Her Groove Back
Stella's return to Chicago in season 10, episode 10 brings tension as she confesses to Kelly about her mistake of going radio silent while out of town. She explains that she was anxious about her career and panicked. Despite this, she reassures Kelly of her commitment to their relationship, expressing her love and dedication. The episode closes with a cliffhanger as Kelly asks Stella if she wants to get married. The following episode, season 10, episode 11, continues with Stella affirming her desire to marry Kelly, declaring her love and commitment to him.
Credit: Adrian S. Burrows Sr./NBC
He Put a Ring on It
"Show of Force" in season 10, episode 12 is a game-changer for Kelly and Stella's relationship. They come together to confront Lieutenant Jason Pelham (Brett Dalton) at Firehouse 51, solidifying their bond. Despite having to remain a member of Truck 81 rather than its leader, Stella earns Kelly's pride by standing up for justice alongside Jason.
At the conclusion of the January 2022 episode, Kelly proposes again, this time presenting a ring, and Stella agrees. "I was incredibly moved by your actions for Pelham. It was courageous, beautiful, and powerful," he expresses to Stella, adding, "I truly am the luckiest man in Chicago." The two share a kiss outside the firefighter gala.
Credit: Adrian S. Burrows Sr./NBC
Pre-Wedding Jitters?
Prior to their wedding, tensions arose between Kelly and Stella in season 10, episode 21's "Last Chance," which aired in May 2022. Kelly accused Stella of always getting her way, and he felt that he often gave in to her demands. The situation escalated further when Stella mentioned the cost of the reception alcohol and the food tasting they had arranged. Kelly dismissed the tasting, leading Stella to confide in Herrmann about her doubts regarding the wedding.
After being assaulted by members of a drug ring, Kelly and his fiancée reconcile during her hospital stay. Later, Kelly proposes moving their wedding up to alleviate the strain it has put on their relationship.
“We need to face this head-on,” Kelly urges his fiancée at Chicago Med. “Let’s not delay any longer. Let’s have the wedding next week.”
Credit: Adrian S. Burrows Sr./NBC
They Do!
The couple encountered a series of challenges on their special day when Kelly was assaulted by a drug dealer's associate with a knife. Despite the terrifying incident, Kelly managed to reach the venue with Stella by his side. However, they faced another obstacle when they were informed that the venue was double booked, leading to the ceremony being relocated to a nearby boat.
Surrounded by their firehouse family, including the return of Matt Casey as Kelly’s best man, the couple exchanged vows in the season 10 finale episode, “The Magnificent City of Chicago,” which aired in May 2022. Stella expressed her love for Kelly, saying, “When I’m at my lowest, you lift me up and never leave my side. You are the best.” Kelly reciprocated with equally heartfelt words, pledging to spend the rest of his life trying to be worthy of Stella.
Credit: Adrian S. Burrows Sr./NBC
Happily Ever After?
In the season 10 finale, titled “The Magnificent City of Chicago,” the couple officially tied the knot. However, their future together may not be as idyllic as they hoped. The cliffhanger at the end of the May 2022 episode revealed a big truck pulling up to Kelly and Stella’s cabin in the woods, possibly signaling the arrival of a hitman from the drug gang Kelly is working to bring down. The final scene showed the newlyweds entering their unlocked house after kissing, unaware of the danger waiting just outside.
Credit: Adrian S Burrows Sr/NBC
Honeymoon From Hell
The start of Season 11 in September 2022 saw Kelly and Stella enjoying their honeymoon in the peaceful woods. As the "Hold on Tight" episode unfolds, the couple finds themselves in a steamy moment on the cabin floor, until a sudden noise outside grabs their attention. Both startled, Kelly quickly reacts to the situation as she spots two armed men outside. She urgently instructs Stella to dress up and make a quick exit through the back.
As they flee from the criminals connected to the drug gang Kelly is set to testify against, the couple briefly separates. Stella, spotting a gunman headed for her husband, distracts him and then stumbles over a tree branch. Just as the man prepares to shoot her, Kelly appears and stabs him in the back, saving her life. Soon after, the police arrive and reveal they had been tracking the hitmen all along.
Though the ordeal is over, Kelly is troubled by the fact that his wife was almost killed because of his decision to testify against dangerous men. Ultimately, he ensures that the corrupt police officer behind the scheme is brought to justice, and Stella reassures him that she will always support him, easing his mind.
Credit: Adrian S Burrows Sr/NBC
Stella's Bombing Scare
In the midseason finale of Season 11, which aired in December 2022, Stella finds herself in peril once again. Alongside Carver (Jake Lockett), she bravely enters a burning building to rescue an injured police officer, who is discovered to have part of a grenade lodged in his leg. After successfully removing the dangerous object, an explosion occurs that seems to engulf Stella.
When episode 10 aired in January 2023, Kelly burst into the building to ensure the safety of his wife. Stella was quickly taken to the hospital and, despite being injured in the blast, she fully recovered after taking a few weeks off from work. However, Stella continues to struggle with PTSD, relying on her husband for support as she works through her emotional recovery.
Credit: Adrian S Burrows Sr/NBC
Butting Heads on the Job
They seemed to be doing well as a couple until season 11, episode 12 in January 2023. In that episode, Kelly disregards Stella's advice during a call about a possible bomb near a bunker door.
Although no one is injured, Stella is upset that her partner didn't listen to her and put himself at risk. She later criticizes him for being "robotic" and not considering her fear of explosions after she was hospitalized earlier that year.
The tension between the pair spills over into their teams, who start picking fights at Firehouse 51. Kelly eventually admits to Stella that he has to keep his personal feelings out of their day-to-day otherwise he would fall apart with fear over losing her, which she accepts as an apology and they move forward as a team.
Credit: One Chicago/YouTube
The Comeback Kiss
Kelly was absent for the latter part of season 11 due to Kinney's temporary "leave of absence" from January 2023 to address a personal matter. In October 2023, it was confirmed that the actor would return for the beginning of season 12.
A month later, NBC unveiled a teaser for season 12, providing a glimpse of Kelly and Stella reuniting onscreen. "I'm here. We're in this together," Kelly reassures his wife before sharing a kiss with her at the firehouse.
