For more than a decade, Chicago Fire has been built on blazing rescues, heartfelt brotherhood, and one undeniable constant: Lieutenant Kelly Severide. Played by Taylor Kinney since the series’ debut in 2012, the charismatic firefighter has become the heart and soul of Firehouse 51. Now, in a surprising turn, Kinney is stepping away from the series to address what his team describes as a “personal matter”—and the One Chicago fandom is reeling.
A Decade of Dedication
Taylor Kinney, now 41, isn’t just another actor on the call sheet—he’s an institution. Since day one, his character Severide has stood at the center of the action: battling infernos, leading daring rescues, and embodying the dangerous thrill of a first responder’s life. Alongside Jesse Spencer’s Captain Matthew Casey, Severide formed one-half of the duo that anchored the show through its early years.
Over time, Kinney’s Severide became more than just a firefighter. His storylines carried the emotional weight of the series—whether it was navigating messy romances, clashing with authority, or finally settling into marriage with Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo). Severide was Chicago Fire’s leading man, its romantic hero, and its adrenaline-fueled daredevil all in one.
The Shocking Announcement
News broke suddenly when Deadline first reported that Kinney would take a leave of absence. A source close to the production later confirmed to ENTERT that the actor needed to step away to handle personal matters. NBC and Kinney’s representatives have declined to offer more details, leaving fans to speculate about the circumstances.
The timing couldn’t be more emotional. Just last October, the cast and crew celebrated the 10-year anniversary of the series, a milestone that Kinney described as deeply personal. “I’ve been here over a decade, and the city has been good to me,” he told Today. “I’ve gotten to know it through my work: southside, north, westside. We’ve done scenes on the lake. The city has been good to me. I love this city.”
Severide’s Absence: What Happens Now?
With Kinney’s sudden exit, questions loom about Chicago Fire’s future. Severide isn’t just a fan favorite—he’s one of the most integral characters in the entire One Chicago franchise, frequently appearing in Chicago P.D. and Chicago Med. His absence creates a seismic shift not only for Firehouse 51 but also for the interconnected storytelling that ties the universe together.
Showrunners have yet to confirm how the series will write around Severide’s absence. Will he be sent on a long-term assignment? Will the writers open the door for an eventual return? Fans have seen major exits before—like Jesse Spencer’s Casey in Season 10—but losing both leads within a short span raises difficult questions about the show’s longevity.
The Legacy of a Fan-Favorite
Despite the uncertainty, one fact remains clear: Taylor Kinney’s Severide is already a Chicago Fire legend. His daring rescues, complicated romances, and unwavering loyalty to his team have made him a fixture in television history. Even if his current leave becomes permanent, the character has left a mark too deep to fade.
For now, the fans wait. The city of Chicago may be used to fighting fires—but nothing could prepare Firehouse 51 for this kind of loss.
