The One Chicago universe may not feature superheroes or iconic costumes like the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but it has become a fan-favorite shared universe showcasing the lives of first responders in a fictionalized Chicago. Chicago Fire, the franchise’s flagship series, debuted in 2012 and quickly became a hit. One standout character who joined in Season 4 is Stella Kidd, played by Miranda Rae Mayo. In an exclusive interview, Mayo shared her thoughts on joining the show, her character’s growth, and what it’s like behind the scenes.
Stella Kidd’s Journey and Growth
When asked about her character’s development, Mayo expressed her excitement about the direction of Stella Kidd’s storyline, especially as it becomes more independent from her on-screen relationship with Kelly Severide. For the first time, Kidd is stepping into a prominent leadership role. Mayo said, “It’s really fun to see Kidd develop into a leader on her own terms, without the focus being entirely on her relationship with Severide. It’s been a great experience portraying that growth.”
Reflecting on her early days joining the established cast in Season 4, Mayo mentioned how warmly she was welcomed. “The cast was incredibly supportive, just like you see on screen. The characters embraced Stella Kidd, and off-camera, I experienced the same from the actors,” she shared. David Eigenberg (Herrmann), Yuri Sardarov (Otis), and Kara Killmer (Brett) were particularly instrumental in helping her feel like part of the family from day one.
The Challenges of Playing a Firefighter
Portraying a firefighter on Chicago Fire isn’t just about acting — it involves intense physical challenges and technical skills. Mayo credited the show’s technical advisor, Steve Chikerotis, a real-life firefighter, for guiding her and the cast. “Steve is a legend in the firefighting community. From the start, he was there to train us and provide insights into what it’s really like in the field,” she explained. Mayo also highlighted Tony Ferraris, another working firefighter on the show, who helps ensure the scenes are as realistic as possible while maintaining safety.
Despite the rigorous training, Mayo found the experience fascinating. “The hardest part was adapting to the mindset of real firefighters,” she said. “They have a very pragmatic approach. It’s not about dwelling on what just happened; it’s about moving forward and finding humor in tough situations.”
Stella Kidd’s Pivotal Episode: “Don’t Hang Up”
In the recent episode titled “Don’t Hang Up,” Stella Kidd faces a unique challenge as much of the scene revolves around a phone call. Mayo revealed that while this was one of her most nerve-wracking moments, it was also a valuable learning experience. “Acting over the phone was challenging because it required being fully present without showing everything on my face. It was all about listening and reacting,” she said. Mayo emphasized the importance of maintaining a calm demeanor, reflecting the mindset of a first responder in high-pressure situations.
This episode marked a turning point for Kidd as she prepares for her Lieutenant test, showcasing her growth as a character. “Up until this point, Stella wasn’t sure about becoming a Lieutenant. It was the encouragement from her superiors, like Chief Boden, that made her believe in her potential,” Mayo shared. “This moment was proof to herself that she’s capable of leadership, not just something others see in her.”
Life as Part of a Fan-Favorite Couple
Mayo also spoke about the fan enthusiasm surrounding “Stellaride” — the relationship between Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide. “The fans are incredible. It’s like Christmas shopping for them. I can’t wait to see their reactions to certain scenes,” she laughed. While she enjoys the positive feedback, Mayo is curious about what it might be like to play a relationship that receives mixed reactions from fans. “It’s all about the energy and passion, and I think it could be even more fun if the fans had different opinions.”
The One Chicago Experience and Dream Crossover
Being part of the One Chicago universe allows actors to crossover between shows like Chicago Med and Chicago P.D. Mayo described the experience as akin to visiting different cities within the same country. “Each set has its own vibe. The Med cast is more serene, while Fire is rowdier, which fits the firefighter culture,” she noted.
When asked about her dream crossover scenario, Mayo’s eyes lit up. “I’d love for Stella Kidd to be called as an expert on a case in Law & Order: SVU. Getting to work with Mariska Hargitay would be a dream come true.”
