Taylor Kinney, best known as Kelly Severide on NBC’s Chicago Fire, has become a household name thanks to his portrayal of the fearless Rescue Squad 3 lieutenant at Firehouse 51. Since 2012, Kinney has captivated audiences with his grit and charisma on the popular One Chicago series. But before stepping into the boots of a first responder, Kinney’s journey took many surprising turns—from a small-town upbringing in Pennsylvania to a love for surfing in Hawaii.
Here’s a closer look at the fascinating transformation of Taylor Kinney from his early years to becoming one of television’s most recognizable stars.
High School Hero on the Volleyball Court
Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Taylor Kinney grew up in the small community of Neffsville with his mother, Pamela, a dental hygienist, and three brothers. During his time at Lancaster Mennonite School, Kinney quickly gained attention as a standout athlete on the volleyball court.
Eric Kinnel, a high school teammate, described Kinney as one of the school’s top players, recalling how Kinney led the team to district playoffs in his senior year. Even off the court, Kinney left a lasting impression. His high school yearbook labeled him as “carefree, goofy, and committed,” and former associate principal Miles Yoder fondly remembered him as a likable, friendly student.
A Shift from Business to Acting
After graduating high school, Kinney attended West Virginia University, where he initially pursued a major in business management. However, his college path took an unexpected turn when he enrolled in an elective theater course during his sophomore year. It was here that Kinney discovered his passion for acting, which would ultimately change the trajectory of his life.
In addition to acting, Kinney also picked up a new hobby in college: boxing. Inspired by his grandfather’s love for the sport, Kinney gained a deep respect for boxers and their rigorous training. Reflecting on his time in the ring, Kinney recalled the grueling nature of the sport, which would later prepare him for the physical demands of his acting roles.
Surfing, Skydiving, and Carpentry in Hawaii
After leaving college, Kinney traded the Appalachian hills for the beaches of Hawaii. There, he fell in love with surfing, a lifelong passion that perfectly matched his adventurous spirit. To fund his wave-riding lifestyle, Kinney worked as a carpenter, a skill he had honed during his teenage years as a roofer in Pennsylvania.
Kinney’s experience in construction even proved useful for his role on Chicago Fire. “I spent summers on roofs and framing houses,” he said in an interview. “I like using my hands, and it came in handy when playing a firefighter.”
Breaking into Hollywood
Kinney’s acting career began in 2006 with a recurring role in the soap opera Fashion House. From there, his career steadily gained momentum. He appeared on hit shows like Bones, CSI: NY, and the medical drama Trauma. One of his most notable early roles was as Mason Lockwood on The Vampire Diaries, where he played a werewolf for 10 episodes.
In 2012, Kinney landed his breakthrough role as Kelly Severide in Chicago Fire. His rugged charm and compelling performance quickly made him a fan favorite, and his character has since become a cornerstone of the One Chicago franchise.
Fame, Firehouses, and Lady Gaga
While Kinney’s career soared, his personal life also made headlines. In 2011, he began dating pop superstar Lady Gaga after meeting on the set of her music video for “You and I.” The couple got engaged in 2015 but parted ways a year later. Despite the split, both Kinney and Gaga have spoken highly of each other in interviews.
A Remarkable Transformation
From the volleyball courts of Pennsylvania to the beaches of Hawaii and finally to the blazing drama of Chicago Fire, Taylor Kinney’s life has been a journey of unexpected detours and bold choices. His dedication to his craft and his ability to adapt to new challenges have solidified his place as a beloved actor and a true One Chicago icon.
