NBC’s Chicago Fire is gearing up for its 13th season, and while fans are eager to see what’s next for Firehouse 51, one burning question remains: will Lieutenant Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) finally get promoted to Captain?
According to showrunner Andrea Newman, the answer is no—at least not anytime soon. Speaking with TV Line, Newman explained that Severide’s career trajectory isn’t about climbing the ranks.
“He’s got his focus on the thing he is obsessed with, which is arson and OFI, in addition to squad, which he loves,” Newman revealed. “There’s a lot of politics the higher you go up in rank, and Severide has no interest in that. He’s a get-your-hands-dirty kind of guy.”
Instead, Severide’s storyline in Season 13 will continue to balance his passion for arson investigations with his loyalty to his squad. His potential move to the Office of Fire Investigation (OFI) will remain an ongoing thread.
A New Chief at Firehouse 51
The new season will also mark a major leadership change following Eamonn Walker’s exit as Chief Wallace Boden in Season 12. His replacement, Dom Pascal, is an original character described as a positive, pressure-tested leader who arrives in Chicago after serving as a fire chief in Miami. The role has not yet been cast, but the character is set to bring a very different management style to 51.
Departures and Fresh Faces
Chicago Fire has seen a wave of exits recently. Kara Killmer wrapped her run as Sylvie Brett, who left Chicago with husband Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer) and their daughter for Portland. Alberto Rosende also departed as firefighter Blake Gallo in Season 12.
But it’s not all goodbyes—new cast members Rome Flynn, Jocelyn Hudon, and Michael Bradway are set to join the team, giving fans plenty of fresh storylines to look forward to.
What’s Next for Severide and Kidd?
Beyond career decisions, fans can also expect new developments in Severide and Stella Kidd’s (Miranda Rae Mayo) marriage. Newman teased that their relationship will continue to face fresh obstacles and emotional challenges.
“What’s the next little obstacle to throw in their path? And what’s the next step that can bring out the darker side to a character?” Newman hinted. “It’s been a constant challenge, but in the best way.”
Created by Derek Haas and Michael Brandt, Chicago Fire first premiered in 2012 and recently celebrated its 250th episode. With Season 13 on the horizon, it’s clear the show still has plenty of heat left.
