As Chicago Fire blazes toward its 13th season, one question has lingered among fans: will Lieutenant Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) finally step up to Captain? According to showrunner Andrea Newman, the answer is a firm no—and the reasoning is all about who Severide is at his core.
Severide’s True Calling
Newman explained that Severide’s ambition isn’t defined by rank. “He’s got his focus on the thing he is obsessed with, which is arson and OFI, in addition to squad, which he loves,” she told TV Line.
The higher the rank, the more politics come with it—and Severide wants no part of that. He’s the type of firefighter who thrives in the field, not behind a desk. “He’s a get-your-hands-dirty kind of guy,” Newman emphasized, making it clear that Severide’s path is about passion, not promotion.
This means season 13 will see him continuing to balance his dual loyalties: leading Squad 3 while pursuing his growing interest in arson investigations with the Office of Fire Investigation (OFI).
A New Chief at Firehouse 51
While Severide’s title won’t change, Firehouse 51 is getting a leadership shake-up. Following Eamonn Walker’s emotional exit as Chief Wallace Boden, the house will welcome a new commanding officer: Dom Pascal.
Pascal, an original character arriving from Miami, is described as a “positive, pressure-tested leader” who brings a very different energy to 51. The role has yet to be cast, but his presence is set to redefine the dynamics of the house.
Departures and Fresh Faces
Season 12 marked several tearful goodbyes. Kara Killmer exited as Sylvie Brett, who left Chicago with Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer) and their daughter for Portland. Alberto Rosende also departed as firefighter Blake Gallo.
But fans won’t be short on new faces. Season 13 introduces Rome Flynn, Jocelyn Hudon, and Michael Bradway to the ranks, promising a new wave of drama and fresh storylines for Firehouse 51.
Severide and Kidd: Trials Ahead
Beyond career paths, Severide’s marriage to Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) will continue to be a focal point. Newman teased that the couple won’t have it easy. “What’s the next little obstacle to throw in their path? And what’s the next step that can bring out the darker side to a character?” she hinted.
Their bond will be tested in new ways, ensuring that the fire in their relationship burns just as brightly—and dangerously—as the blazes they face on duty.
Final Thoughts
Since its premiere in 2012, Chicago Fire has thrived on the balance between grit, authenticity, and character-driven drama. Severide may never climb the political ladder, but that’s exactly what makes him indispensable to Firehouse 51. With new leadership, new recruits, and fresh challenges for Severide and Kidd, season 13 proves there’s still plenty of fuel left for the long-running series.
