While there were concerns that Taylor Kinney’s time on Chicago Fire was coming to an end, Kelly Severide’s subtle return to top form in season 13 suggests otherwise. Kinney has played Severide since the beginning of the NBC procedural drama. As a lieutenant at Firehouse 51 and the officer in charge of Squad 3, Severide has always been a key character on the series. So when he started to lose his classic self in recent seasons of Chicago Fire, the One Chicago TV show began to decline, which is why Severide’s role in season 13 is so interesting. Kinney is one of the few original Chicago Fire cast members remaining in season 13, along with David Eigenberg as Christopher Herrmann, Christian Stolte as Randall “Mouch” McHolland, and Joe Miñoso as Joe Cruz. Yes, there have been some great additions to the cast over the years. However, the show still needs as many original characters as possible to maintain a sense of nostalgia, especially after Eamonn Walker left before Chicago Fire season 13 premiered. By bringing back the classic Severide, the procedural drama is setting itself up for success.
Many believed that Taylor Kinney would leave Chicago Fire after the actor was absent for several episodes in seasons 11 and 12. Kinney left the show at the end of season 11 to deal with a personal matter, and he didn’t appear in a few episodes in season 12. However, Kinney (thankfully) returned as Severide in Chicago Fire season 13. After five episodes, it’s clear that the character is returning to his classic, passionate role on the procedural drama. He’s been pretty quiet over the past few years, but that’s starting to change in season 13. By reprising his classic role in Chicago Fire season 13, Severide’s storyline could have the space it needs to grow.
Since season 13 debuted, Severide has been heavily involved in various storylines, both personally and professionally. He was torn between siding with Stella or Jack Damon (Severide’s half-brother) in Chicago Fire season 13 when Damon disobeyed Stella’s orders, a conflict that lasted for several episodes. Severide has also investigated a few mysterious fires, even teaming up with Stella in episode 5. Additionally, the rift between Severide and Chief Pascal, which was teased in episode 1, will come to a head in episode 6 as they argue over a case.
Severide’s return to form is great news for the future of the One Chicago universe. He’s an integral member of the Firehouse 51 team, and his classic character arc is exactly what they (and the show) needed to grow, especially after all the actors have left recently. Chicago Fire wouldn’t be the same without Severide’s determination and great instincts.
By reprising his classic role in Chicago Fire season 13, Severide’s storyline could have the space it needs to grow. His storylines have been pretty flat over the past few seasons. So, since Severide is more involved in Chicago Fire season 13 than he has been recently, he has time to remind viewers why he’s such an important part of the NBC series.
