Introduction: Stella and Kelly’s Relationship in Chicago Fire Season 13
As Chicago Fire enters its 13th season, fans are eagerly anticipating the next chapter of their favorite characters’ lives. Among the most beloved couples in the show’s history are Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide. Their relationship has seen ups and downs, but it’s their deep connection and chemistry that have captivated viewers for years.
However, as with all good television storylines, there is always the looming possibility of missteps that can threaten everything the characters have worked so hard to build. While Stella and Kelly’s love story has provided many heartwarming moments, season 13 of Chicago Fire must avoid making a crucial mistake that could undermine their relationship in a way fans would find hard to forgive.
In this article, we’ll explore the one mistake that could put Stella and Kelly’s future in jeopardy, why it would be such a damaging plot point, and how the writers can navigate their storyline to ensure that their relationship remains one of the central, enduring strengths of Chicago Fire.
A Brief Recap of Stella and Kelly’s Relationship
Stella and Kelly’s Journey So Far
Since Stella Kidd (played by Miranda Rae Mayo) first arrived at Firehouse 51, her dynamic with Kelly Severide (played by Taylor Kinney) has been nothing short of electric. Over the years, their friendship evolved into a romance, and despite the inevitable challenges faced by both of them, they became one of the most iconic couples on the show.
Stella and Kelly have faced numerous obstacles, including personal struggles, professional challenges, and external pressures. Their relationship has survived these hardships, and the couple has managed to grow together both individually and as partners. Their ability to support one another through thick and thin has made them an anchor in the Chicago Fire narrative.
From dealing with Kelly’s past trauma to navigating Stella’s decision to take on a leadership role with the girls’ firehouse program, their journey has been a compelling one. Fans have watched them face challenges head-on, often coming out stronger on the other side.
Their Most Defining Moments
There have been several defining moments that shaped their relationship, from Stella’s promotion to lieutenant to the emotional scene where Kelly confesses his love for her. These moments have endeared them to viewers, and many fans are invested in seeing them overcome future challenges. However, with the arrival of season 13, there’s one potential storyline pitfall that could derail everything they’ve worked for.
The One Mistake That Could Ruin Their Storyline: A Lack of Communication
Communication: The Foundation of Stella and Kelly’s Relationship
If there’s one thing that’s been clear throughout Stella and Kelly’s relationship, it’s that communication has been a central theme. Whether it’s Kelly opening up about his difficult past or Stella revealing her fears about balancing her career and personal life, they’ve always relied on honest, open communication to navigate their challenges.
However, season 13 introduces the risk that communication between Stella and Kelly could falter. If the writers allow a breakdown in communication—especially over something major like trust, career choices, or emotional vulnerability—it could irreparably damage their relationship. A failure to communicate, particularly during the pressures that come with the demands of being a firefighter and a lieutenant, would strike at the heart of what makes their connection so strong.
Why a Breakdown in Communication Could Be Devastating
A lack of communication is a common trope in television relationships, but in the case of Stella and Kelly, it would be far more detrimental. Here’s why:
1. Their Relationship Is Built on Trust
From the beginning of their relationship, Stella and Kelly have built a strong foundation of trust. Kelly trusts Stella with his deepest secrets, and she trusts him with her hopes and dreams. If either of them were to withhold something crucial—whether it’s a feeling of doubt, a fear about the future, or a professional decision—it would break the trust that they’ve worked so hard to build.
In previous seasons, when Kelly was struggling with his past demons, he was able to open up to Stella, and vice versa. If season 13 introduces a scenario where either of them withholds something significant from the other, it would not only feel like a betrayal but could also be a dealbreaker for their relationship.
2. The Emotional Distance Could Be Too Much to Overcome
A lack of communication can lead to emotional distance, a dangerous trend in any relationship. If Stella and Kelly start to emotionally withdraw from each other, they risk losing the deep connection that fans love. Emotional distance can be particularly damaging when both characters are under stress—whether from their demanding jobs, personal struggles, or external challenges. Without proper communication, they may start to feel like they’re no longer partners but rather two individuals navigating their separate worlds.
This emotional disconnect could snowball into feelings of loneliness, resentment, or insecurity. For a relationship as central to the show as Stella and Kelly’s, this kind of tension could quickly lose the trust and warmth that fans have come to rely on.
3. It Would Undermine Their Growth
Over the years, we’ve watched both Stella and Kelly grow. Stella’s promotion to lieutenant and her ongoing commitment to helping other firefighters demonstrate her ambition and leadership skills, while Kelly’s evolution as a more emotionally open and mature partner has been equally impressive. If season 13 doesn’t allow them to communicate effectively, it would undo a lot of the progress both characters have made.
Moreover, Kelly has always struggled with pushing people away due to his emotional baggage. If Stella were to do the same in response—whether consciously or unconsciously—it would undermine the growth both characters have gone through since they first became a couple.
How the Writers Can Avoid This Pitfall
So, how can the writers of Chicago Fire ensure that this mistake isn’t made? Here are a few strategies that can help maintain the strength of Stella and Kelly’s relationship:
1. Keep the Lines of Communication Open
In season 13, Stella and Kelly need to continue to prioritize open and honest communication. This means having difficult conversations when things get tough, whether it’s about their careers, their future, or the challenges they face as individuals. Keeping the lines of communication open will allow both characters to confront problems together instead of allowing them to fester and create unnecessary distance between them.
2. Allow Room for Vulnerability
Part of what makes Stella and Kelly’s relationship so captivating is their ability to be vulnerable with each other. Season 13 should embrace this vulnerability, allowing both characters to open up in moments of personal crisis or uncertainty. By showing their emotional sides, the show would reinforce the idea that communication isn’t just about discussing logistics—it’s about sharing feelings and fears, which strengthens their bond.
3. Address External Pressures Without Overloading Their Relationship
It’s important to recognize that Stella and Kelly’s relationship isn’t just influenced by their personal lives; it’s also affected by their professional roles. As a lieutenant and a firefighter, they’re constantly under pressure. However, season 13 shouldn’t overload their storyline with external factors that take away from their emotional connection. Instead, it should balance the challenges they face at work with their efforts to nurture their relationship.
By tackling their issues head-on while still allowing room for love and support, the writers can ensure that their connection remains strong and that any tension doesn’t come from a lack of communication, but rather from external forces they can tackle together.
Conclusion: What’s at Stake for Stella and Kelly in Chicago Fire Season 13
As Chicago Fire heads into its 13th season, fans are eager to see what’s next for Stella and Kelly. Their relationship has been one of the most compelling aspects of the series, and it’s clear that their love for each other is unwavering. However, as with any complex relationship, there are always potential pitfalls.
The one mistake Stella and Kelly’s storyline can’t afford to make is a breakdown in communication. If they stop talking to each other or fail to address their issues honestly, it would undo much of the growth they’ve achieved and threaten their relationship.
Fortunately, with careful writing and a focus on their emotional connection, Chicago Fire can avoid this mistake and continue to provide fans with the heartwarming moments they’ve come to expect. After all, Stella and Kelly are a couple worth rooting for, and with the right storytelling, their future together can remain bright and filled with hope.
