In Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 9, titled “A Favor,” significant developments hint at the possibility of Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide starting a family. As the longest-running couple on the first responder drama, their journey has been one of resilience and growth. Since their wedding in the Season 10 finale, the duo has navigated professional challenges and personal hurdles, keeping fans invested in their evolving relationship.
Episode 9 adds fuel to the theories of a Kidd-Severide pregnancy arc, even as the firehouse faces new transitions. While Stella Kidd is away for her Girls on Fire program, her absence highlights Wolf Entertainment’s cast rotation strategy for Season 13. Back at Firehouse 51, Wallace Boden’s replacement, Dom Pascal, oversees a team undergoing notable changes, including promotions for veteran members Christopher Herrmann and Randy “Mouch” McHolland.
Promotions at Firehouse 51
The midseason premiere officially confirms that Herrmann and Mouch have passed their respective exams. Herrmann, chosen by Boden as his successor, now holds the position of battalion chief, a significant step forward for Firehouse 51. Meanwhile, Mouch’s promotion to lieutenant, while initially seen as less impactful, may have larger implications for the team.
Joe Cruz’s earlier decision to forgo the lieutenant’s exam due to a lack of open leadership positions highlights the crowded landscape at the firehouse. However, Mouch’s new rank gives him the flexibility to step up when needed. In Episode 9, Mouch temporarily leads Truck 81 during a call in Kidd’s absence, showcasing his capability to fill critical gaps.
Mouch’s Promotion and a Pregnancy Arc
Mouch’s advancement could play a pivotal role in the show’s storyline, particularly if Kidd and Severide decide to start a family. With Mouch able to take over Truck 81, it provides a sense of security for Kidd, allowing her to step back when necessary, whether for desk duty or maternity leave.
Severide’s desire to start a family has been evident since the Chicago Fire Season 12 finale when he expressed this wish after an update from Sylvie Brett about her new life with Matt Casey. Kidd, taken aback by his confession, hasn’t revisited the subject. While Kidd has her reservations, Mouch’s promotion might ease her concerns, making the prospect of starting a family more realistic.
Are Kidd and Severide Ready for Parenthood?
Fans of Chicago Fire have long rooted for Kidd and Severide to expand their family, seeing it as the natural progression of their relationship. Both characters endured challenging childhoods, and it would be compelling to see how those experiences shape their parenting approach.
However, the show must ensure that Kidd and Severide are truly ready to take this step. Their relationship has seen its fair share of obstacles, including Severide’s abrupt departure in Season 11 to focus on OFI. Introducing a baby into their lives without resolving lingering issues could strain their bond further.
Ultimately, Chicago Fire needs to strike a balance between deepening their relationship and maintaining the drama that has made the series so beloved. If handled well, Kidd and Severide’s journey to parenthood could bring fresh depth to the show.
The Road Ahead
As Chicago Fire continues to develop its characters and relationships, fans eagerly anticipate how Kidd and Severide’s story unfolds. Whether the couple takes the plunge into parenthood or decides to wait, the narrative promises to deliver the emotional stakes and heartfelt moments that have defined the series.
