For more than a decade, NBC’s Chicago Fire has captivated viewers with its thrilling rescues, emotional storylines, and powerful themes of brotherhood and love. But while the characters at Firehouse 51 face chaos, heartbreak, and danger on screen, the cast’s real lives are filled with love stories just as compelling — and far more peaceful.
From long-lasting marriages to a Halloween meet-cute straight out of a rom-com, here’s a look at the real-life partners of the Chicago Fire stars.
The Power Couples of Firehouse 51
Taylor Kinney (Kelly Severide) & Ashley Cruger
As the smoldering Lieutenant Kelly Severide, Taylor Kinney is half of Chicago Fire’s most passionate couple, Stellaride. Off-screen, his romance is much more low-key. Kinney has been in a long-term relationship with Ashley Cruger, a model who frequently accompanies him to public events.
While Kinney tends to keep his private life quiet, fans have spotted the couple sharing genuine smiles and laughs away from the cameras — proving that, unlike Severide, Taylor’s love life is refreshingly drama-free.
David Eigenberg (Christopher Herrmann) & Chrysti Eigenberg
One of the most heartwarming real-life romances belongs to David Eigenberg, who plays Firehouse veteran Christopher Herrmann. He’s been happily married to Chrysti Eigenberg for over two decades, and the pair share two children.
Chrysti, a former nurse and publicist, has been David’s steady rock throughout his career. Their long-lasting marriage mirrors Herrmann’s on-screen loyalty and devotion — a true example of love built on humor, patience, and teamwork.
Eamonn Walker (Wallace Boden) & Sandra Walker
Chief Wallace Boden is the moral center of Firehouse 51, and actor Eamonn Walker seems to channel that same steadiness in his own life. Walker has been married to Sandra Walker for years, and the couple shares three children.
Known for guarding their privacy fiercely, Eamonn and Sandra prefer to stay far from the spotlight. Their quiet commitment is a testament to enduring love built on respect and mutual understanding.
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A Halloween Party Love Story: Kara Killmer & Andrew Chen
Not all great romances start with a script — some begin with a costume. Chicago Fire’s Kara Killmer (Paramedic Sylvie Brett) met her real-life husband, Andrew Chen, at a Halloween party!
The two actors hit it off instantly, and their spooky-meets-sweet encounter blossomed into a lasting marriage. The couple keeps much of their relationship private, but friends and fans know them as an incredibly supportive duo. Their love story could easily be its own One Chicago subplot — only with more candy and fewer fires.
New Love and Private Lives
Miranda Rae Mayo (Stella Kidd)
Miranda Rae Mayo, who plays the fierce and determined Lieutenant Stella Kidd, has mastered the art of keeping her personal life off-screen. She is reportedly in a relationship but chooses not to share details publicly.
Instead, Mayo uses her platform to advocate for mental health, spirituality, and creative growth — showing fans that her strength extends far beyond Firehouse 51.
Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter)
Actor Daniel Kyri, who portrays the brave and compassionate firefighter Darren Ritter, proudly represents LGBTQ+ visibility on and off the show. Kyri has shared glimpses of his relationship with his partner, celebrating their shared passion for art, culture, and expression.
Fans admire how his real-life authenticity enriches Ritter’s on-screen journey — a firefighter defined by courage, compassion, and integrity.
Joe Minoso (Joe Cruz) & Caitlin Murphy
A fan favorite both on and off the screen, Joe Minoso is happily married to Caitlin Murphy, who also works in the entertainment industry. Their love story began while working on a stage production, and their relationship has been strong ever since.
Minoso often praises Caitlin’s unwavering support, crediting her with helping him balance the demanding filming schedule of Chicago Fire with his family life.
Love That Grounds the Heroes
The actors behind Chicago Fire’s most intense characters rely on real-life love and family to keep them grounded. Whether it’s Taylor Kinney’s quiet romance, Eamonn Walker’s steadfast marriage, or Kara Killmer’s adorable Halloween love story, these off-screen relationships are what fuel the cast’s authenticity and emotional depth.
While Firehouse 51 thrives on drama, explosions, and heartbreak, the real love stories behind the scenes are built on laughter, patience, and lasting commitment — proof that the strongest bonds are forged not in fire, but in trust.
