Season 13 of Chicago Fire has been a whirlwind for fans, particularly for those invested in Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo). While her presence in Firehouse 51 has always been a cornerstone of the series, the first half of the season has seen her character sidelined, overshadowed by storylines that lean heavily on her connection to Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney). With Severide absent in several episodes, Kidd’s character has struggled to find her footing in the evolving narrative.
The Problem with Stella’s Current Arc
Stella Kidd has long been a standout character in Chicago Fire, celebrated for her charisma, resilience, and ability to anchor the team during turbulent times. But in Season 13, her storylines have become overly dependent on Severide’s presence, leaving her underutilized when he’s off-screen.
For instance, her decision to fire Jack Damon (Michael Bradway) could have been a defining moment for her leadership skills. Instead, the focus shifted to Severide’s ties to Damon, with Kidd taking a backseat. Such instances highlight how her character has been tethered to others’ arcs rather than being given space to develop independently.
Why Severide’s Absence Hurts Kidd’s Development
The chemistry between Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide has been a key element of the show’s success. Their dynamic adds depth and emotional weight to Chicago Fire. However, Severide’s frequent absences in Season 13 have left Kidd in a precarious position. Without her partner, the show has struggled to craft storylines that allow her to shine on her own.
This isn’t the first time Chicago Fire has faced this challenge. In Season 11, the show briefly explored Kidd’s camaraderie with Sam Carver (Jake Lockett), but even then, her narrative revolved around her romantic ties and not her individual growth.
The Risk of Neglecting Kidd’s Character
Stella Kidd is far from being a lost cause, but her recent lack of agency risks flattening the character who once brought so much energy and complexity to the series. She’s a leader, a friend, and a firefighter with her own ambitions and vulnerabilities—qualities that deserve exploration beyond her relationship with Severide.
The absence of independent storylines for Kidd not only limits her potential but also impacts the show’s narrative diversity. By tethering her to Severide’s arcs, the writers miss opportunities to delve into her unique strengths and challenges.
A Path Forward for Stella Kidd
As Chicago Fire continues its 13th season, there’s a chance to reclaim Stella Kidd’s essence. The series has the opportunity to craft storylines that highlight her leadership, explore her personal struggles, and deepen her relationships with other Firehouse 51 members.
By focusing on Kidd’s individual growth, the show can restore the balance that has made her such a compelling character in the past. Fans are eager to see a stronger, more independent Stella Kidd—a character who doesn’t just react to the absence of others but creates her own path within the team.
Looking Ahead
The second half of Season 13 holds the promise of rejuvenating Stella Kidd’s character. With thoughtful writing and a focus on her personal and professional journey, Kidd can once again become a pivotal force in Chicago Fire. As fans wait for the show’s return, the hope remains that Kidd will finally step out of Severide’s shadow and reclaim her spotlight.
