The One Chicago universe has always been an emotional rollercoaster for fans, delivering heartbreak and triumph in equal measure. From dramatic exits to surprising returns, the shows constantly keep viewers on edge. Now, Chicago Fire fans are anxious once again—this time about the fate of Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo).
Kidd’s mysterious absence during parts of Season 10 and her omission from finale promotional materials left fans wondering if she might follow in the footsteps of departed characters like Matt Casey (Jesse Spencer). However, recent insights from showrunner Derek Haas provide clarity and relief for fans of Firehouse 51’s beloved firefighter.
Why Are Fans Concerned About Stella Kidd?
The emotional departure of Matt Casey, a central figure on Chicago Fire, still weighs heavily on fans. Jesse Spencer’s decision to leave the show after 10 seasons was bittersweet; while his character left for noble reasons—helping raise the sons of his fallen best friend—it marked the end of an era.
With Casey gone, fans are naturally protective of other key characters, especially Kidd. Her reduced screen time in Season 10, coupled with her absence from finale photos, led to speculation that she might be the next to exit the series. The relationship between Kidd and Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) has been a cornerstone of the show’s emotional landscape, and fans feared losing another critical piece of Chicago Fire’s heart.
The Truth Behind Kidd’s Absence
Despite fan concerns, Stella Kidd’s absence has an in-universe explanation that ties directly to her character’s growth. Kidd was away working on her Girls on Fire program, a passion project designed to inspire young women to pursue careers in firefighting. While her dedication to the program is admirable, it created tension between her and Severide, who felt abandoned during her time away.
Showrunner Derek Haas has reassured fans that Kidd’s absence is temporary and that she’s back for good. In an interview with TVLine, Haas explained:
“Yes, she’s back for good, but she has a lot of explaining to do. It’s not just explaining to Boden why she didn’t immediately come back when she heard that Casey was leaving and more or less planted a flag on Truck 81, but also why she went dark on Kelly when he was obviously trying to reach her and had her best interest in mind.”
What’s Next for Stella Kidd?
Kidd’s return to Firehouse 51 promises to be a driving force in the upcoming episodes. Haas revealed that the fallout from her time away will spark multiple storylines, including her efforts to rebuild trust with Severide and navigate the challenges of her role within the firehouse.
The show’s focus on Kidd’s return underscores her importance to the series and quells fears of her departure. Fans can look forward to a deeper exploration of her character, her relationship with Severide, and the impact of her Girls on Fire initiative.
Why Fans Love Stella Kidd
Kidd has become a fan favorite for her fierce independence, commitment to firefighting, and unwavering determination to inspire others. Her relationship with Severide, filled with highs and lows, has added a layer of emotional depth to the series. While her absence sparked concern, her return opens the door to even more compelling storytelling as she navigates the consequences of her choices.
For now, fans can breathe a sigh of relief: Stella Kidd isn’t going anywhere.
