Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) stands out as one of the most iconic characters in Chicago Fire. While initially portrayed as a lone wolf, his family ties have gradually taken center stage over the series. From estranged parents to surprising siblings, Kelly’s backstory is arguably the richest and most intricate in the One Chicago universe. Here’s a closer look at his family tree and the drama surrounding it.
Benny Severide: The Flawed Father
Kelly’s father, Benny Severide (Treat Williams), was a decorated firefighter who served alongside legends like Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker). While fearless in the line of duty, Benny’s personal life was anything but stable. Known for his romantic escapades and neglectful parenting, Benny’s strained relationship with Kelly added emotional depth to the series.
Benny appeared sporadically throughout the first six seasons, embodying a mix of wisdom and dysfunction. His offscreen death in Season 7 marked a turning point for Kelly, leaving him to grapple with unresolved feelings about his father’s legacy.
Jennifer Sheridan: The Loving but Flawed Mother
Jennifer Sheridan (Kim Delaney), Kelly’s mother, had a tumultuous relationship with Benny, resulting in a rocky upbringing for their son. Despite being a more consistent figure in Kelly’s life, she struggled to fully support his decision to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Jennifer has only appeared in a handful of episodes, with her last appearance being in Season 10’s “The Magnificent City of Chicago.” While she is alive and well, her limited screen time leaves the door open for future returns to Firehouse 51.
Katie Nolan: The Half-Sister with a Rocky Start
Katie Nolan (Brittany Curran), Benny’s daughter from another relationship, was introduced in Season 2. Initially estranged from her father, Katie didn’t meet him until she was ten years old. Her bond with Kelly, however, developed more naturally as they navigated the complexities of their shared bloodline.
Katie’s time in Chicago was short-lived, but memorable. She even dated Otis (Yuri Sardarov), one of Kelly’s closest colleagues. After leaving Chicago at the end of Season 2, she returned briefly for Benny’s funeral in Season 7, underscoring her connection to the Severide family.
Jack Damon: The New Addition
The most surprising member of the Severide family tree is Jack Damon (Michael Bradway), introduced in Season 12. As Benny’s youngest son, Jack’s arrival shook up the family dynamic, particularly given his admiration for Kelly.
Despite his hero worship of his older half-brother, Jack’s time at Firehouse 51 was short. He was dismissed for disobeying a direct order during a critical mission, leading to his transfer to another firehouse. Nevertheless, Jack and Kelly maintain their bond, adding a new layer to Kelly’s family story.
Severide’s Family Legacy in Chicago Fire
Kelly Severide’s evolving family tree adds depth and complexity to Chicago Fire. From his father’s turbulent past to his siblings’ varied journeys, his relationships highlight both the challenges and triumphs of balancing family with the high-stakes world of firefighting. As new characters like Jack Damon join the fold, the Severide family’s story continues to grow, keeping fans invested in Kelly’s journey.
