The intense bonds and scorching chemistry among the firefighters and paramedics of Firehouse 51 on “Chicago Fire” often lead fans to wonder if those sparks fly in real life. While many cast members maintain professional relationships, some have found love with fellow colleagues or have become the subject of enthusiastic “shipping” by the show’s dedicated audience.
Taylor Kinney: Beyond the “Stellaride” Romance
Taylor Kinney, who embodies the dashing Lieutenant Kelly Severide, has been at the center of many fan discussions, particularly due to his undeniable on-screen chemistry with Miranda Rae Mayo (Stella Kidd). Their “Stellaride” romance has been a cornerstone of the show for seasons, leading many to “ship” them fiercely in real life.
However, Kinney’s real-life love story is with model Ashley Cruger. The couple began dating in early 2022 and, to the delight of many, tied the knot in a small, private ceremony in Chicago on April 30, 2024. Kinney and Cruger have kept their relationship largely private, though they occasionally share glimpses of their life together on social media. Cruger even made a brief cameo as an extra in Season 11 of “Chicago Fire,” a sweet nod to their real-life connection. Prior to his marriage to Cruger, Kinney was famously engaged to pop superstar Lady Gaga from 2015 to 2016, a relationship that also garnered significant public attention.
While Taylor Kinney and Miranda Rae Mayo share undeniable on-screen chemistry and are often compared to an “old married couple” due to their hilarious banter behind the scenes, they are simply good friends in real life. Mayo herself has often praised Kinney’s professionalism and their comfortable working relationship, emphasizing that their strong bond contributes to the authenticity of Severide and Kidd’s dynamic.
Real-Life Romances Forged on Set
“Chicago Fire” isn’t just a place for fictional relationships; it has also been the setting for real-life love stories:
- Joe Minoso (Joe Cruz) and Caitlin Murphy Miles: This is a true “meet-cute” story! Joe Minoso met his now-wife, Caitlin Murphy Miles, on the set of “Chicago Fire” in 2013 when she was working as a makeup artist. They married in October 2016, proving that sparks can indeed fly behind the scenes.
- Kara Killmer (Sylvie Brett) and Andrew Cheney: While Kara Killmer’s character Sylvie Brett found her happily ever after with Matt Casey on screen, Killmer herself has been happily married to actor Andrew Cheney since 2016. They actually met as co-stars in the 2012 film “Beyond the Mask.”
- Jesse Spencer (Matthew Casey) and Kali Woodruff Carr: The beloved Jesse Spencer, who played Captain Matthew Casey, married research scientist Dr. Kali Woodruff Carr in 2020. They met at a music festival in Chicago in 2014, and their wedding was a “silver lining” during the pandemic.
Fan “Ships” and the Reality of Cast Relationships
Beyond the confirmed romances, “Chicago Fire” fans are experts at “shipping” characters and, by extension, the actors who play them. The intense chemistry between characters like Severide and Kidd often fuels these desires for real-life pairings. However, it’s important to remember that actors are professionals, and their on-screen relationships are a testament to their talent and dedication to their craft.
The cast of “Chicago Fire” has consistently spoken about their close-knit, family-like atmosphere on set. They often spend time together outside of filming, taking vacations, celebrating milestones, and supporting each other’s endeavors. This genuine camaraderie contributes to the authentic friendships and relationships portrayed in the show, even if the romantic pairings don’t always translate to real life.
Ultimately, while the drama and romance on “Chicago Fire” keep viewers hooked, the real-life relationships of the cast members offer a glimpse into the people behind the beloved characters, sometimes confirming fan hopes and other times simply showcasing strong friendships and personal happiness.
