Taylor Kinney’s portrayal of Kelly Severide has made him a fan favorite on NBC’s Chicago Fire. However, his absences from the show have always left fans speculating and anxious about his future on the series. The most recent episode reignited those fears as Severide was noticeably missing, leaving viewers wondering if another departure might be on the horizon.
Here’s what we know about Taylor Kinney’s absence, Kelly Severide’s storyline, and what fans can expect moving forward.
The Mystery Behind Taylor Kinney’s Absence
Concern over Kinney’s potential exit has been a recurring theme among Chicago Fire fans. Earlier in the season, tensions between Kelly Severide and his estranged brother, Jack Damon, led to speculation about whether Severide might be transferred or forced out of Firehouse 51. New Fire Chief Dom Pascal made it clear he disapproves of family members working at the same station, putting Kelly in a precarious position.
These tensions, combined with recent cast departures, have heightened fan concerns that Taylor Kinney might also leave the show. However, this latest absence appears to be less dramatic than fans feared.
According to the episode, Kelly was away for work-related reasons. Joe Cruz (Joe Minoso) explained that “Severide’s got some fire inspection boondoggle in Michigan,” and Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) reassured viewers that Kelly was doing well and would be returning early. His absence, it seems, is purely a temporary storyline decision.
Fans can breathe a sigh of relief—Taylor Kinney is expected to return in the next episode, which will feature the much-anticipated One Chicago crossover event.
What’s Next for Kelly Severide?
Taylor Kinney’s return is confirmed, and fans can expect to see Kelly back in action during the crossover episodes airing in January. The crossover promises to bring high-stakes drama to the One Chicago universe.
The event’s synopsis teases a massive gas explosion in a high-rise, sending first responders from Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Chicago Med into action. “When a gas explosion rocks a high-rise, Chicago’s first responders come out in force to rescue hundreds of civilians. It’s the calamity beneath the surface, however, that sends our heroes on a race to save 40 people trapped deep underground, including two of their own.”
For crossover events, the shows air in story order rather than their usual time slots. Since the story begins with Chicago Fire, it will air one hour earlier at 8/7c on January 29, followed by Chicago Med and concluding with Chicago P.D.
The Future of Chicago Fire
While Taylor Kinney’s absence stirred up concerns, his return and participation in the crossover event suggest he’s not leaving the series anytime soon. Fans can continue to enjoy his character’s compelling arcs and leadership at Firehouse 51.
As Chicago Fire moves into its next chapter, viewers can anticipate even more drama, intense firefighting sequences, and the camaraderie that has made the series a cornerstone of the One Chicago universe.
