On NBC’s Chicago Fire, Captain Matthew Casey (Jesse Spencer) and Rescue Squad Lieutenant Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) have been through countless first-responder adventures together. Over the years, their on-screen relationship has grown from competitive rivalry to mutual respect and heartfelt camaraderie, making them one of the show’s most dynamic duos.
Jesse Spencer graced the series for 200 episodes before exiting in Season 10, while Taylor Kinney continues to be a cornerstone of the One Chicago franchise with over 200 episodes to his name. But beyond their on-screen chemistry, fans often wonder: are Spencer and Kinney as close in real life as Casey and Severide are on the show?
Signs of a Real-Life Friendship
If social media and public appearances are any indication, it seems like Jesse Spencer and Taylor Kinney have a solid off-screen bond. Over the years, glimpses of their friendship have popped up online, giving fans a peek into their real-life connection.
For starters, there’s a playful Twitter video shared by @onechicagonews that shows Spencer sneaking up on a napping Kinney at Firehouse 51, decorating his shirt with an unidentified substance. The lighthearted prank highlights their fun dynamic on set, suggesting they share more than just professional rapport.
Another clue to their friendship came via an Instagram post from Kara Killmer, who plays Sylvie Brett on the show. The photo captures Spencer and Kinney hanging out at a Chicago Bears game, arms slung around each other’s shoulders and clearly enjoying some downtime away from the firehouse drama.
Lastly, a tweet from @bestofjspencer further solidifies the evidence. The post features the duo at a Chicago Cubs game, laughing together and sharing a carefree moment. The caption, “Jesse Spencer and Taylor Kinney friendship for your TL,” says it all.
Genuine Camaraderie on and off the Set
It’s clear that the bond Spencer and Kinney share on Chicago Fire has translated into their real lives. Spending countless hours together filming the series, participating in crossover events with Chicago P.D. and Chicago Med, and attending local Chicago sports games seem to have cemented their friendship.
While fans may never get an exhaustive account of their personal relationship, these glimpses into their off-screen interactions suggest a natural camaraderie that mirrors the brotherhood they portray so authentically on the show. It’s safe to say that after over a decade of working side by side in the One Chicago universe, Spencer and Kinney are more than just colleagues—they’re genuine friends.
