As much as it hurts to admit, Kelly Severide and Stella Kidd’s relationship has reached a breaking point, and the Chicago Fire season 12 finale makes it clear that it’s time for them to part ways. While Law & Order focuses heavily on the procedural aspect, the One Chicago series emphasizes the personal lives of its characters. The ongoing emotional storylines, often spanning several seasons, keep viewers like me hooked. Among these, the romances, particularly in Chicago Fire, have been a significant part of the show’s appeal. Unfortunately, Severide and Kidd’s marriage has become more of a struggle than a love story.
Severide & Kidd: A Marriage of Crisis After Crisis
Since their wedding in the Chicago Fire season 10 finale, Severide and Kidd’s relationship has faced one crisis after another. Their honeymoon was disrupted by a violent attack, followed by a near-death experience for Kidd. Things worsened when Severide abruptly left Firehouse 51 to attend an OFI camp, creating tension in their relationship. His return was marred by yet another brush with death in season 12, episode 11, titled “Inside Man.”
While the couple clearly loves each other, their relationship seems to thrive only in chaos, which isn’t healthy. How much more can they endure before resentment begins to fester? Despite their chemistry and history together, it’s difficult to see how their marriage can survive if they continue facing turmoil at every turn.
The Big Problems in Severide and Kidd’s Marriage
Severide and Kidd have become so accustomed to chaos that it appears to be the only thing holding their relationship together. A telling example comes from Severide’s disappearance during his OFI stint. Kidd’s attempt to control the situation, hoping to avoid being left behind again, only caused more tension. Severide ultimately did what he wanted, leaving town once more for another case, despite the strain it put on their marriage.
Although Severide’s return in time for Matt Casey and Sylvie Brett’s wedding in the season 12 finale suggests he’s committed to his wife, one grand gesture can’t erase the damage he’s done. His behavior, particularly during his OFI absence, broke Kidd’s trust. He prioritized his career and personal desires over her well-being, making it difficult to believe that their relationship can fully recover.
Severide’s Inconsideration Comes to a Head in the Season 12 Finale
The culmination of these issues is evident in one key scene from the Chicago Fire season 12 finale, “Never Say Goodbye.” While looking at a text message from Sylvie Casey about Baby Julia, Severide casually brings up the idea of having children. He acknowledges that the burden would fall more heavily on Kidd but does so only after noticing her lack of enthusiasm. This moment highlights Severide’s ongoing inconsideration of Kidd’s feelings.
Considering everything they’ve been through, Severide should have approached the topic of children with more thoughtfulness. Instead, he raises the subject randomly, without considering how Kidd might feel given the challenges they’ve faced. Having children, especially for a couple already struggling, is a major decision that requires careful discussion, not a casual mention in passing.
Is There Hope for Severide and Kidd?
Sadly, showrunner Andrea Newman has already hinted that things will remain rocky for Severide and Kidd moving forward. At this point, I’m exhausted by watching them face constant turmoil. It feels as though the writers can’t craft a narrative for the couple that doesn’t involve endless conflict, and it may be time for them to explore other options.
While a breakup might seem like the end, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s permanent. As we’ve seen with Sylvie and Matt, temporary separations can sometimes be what a relationship needs to heal. For now, however, it’s clear that Severide and Kidd should go their separate ways to save themselves from further heartache. The constant strain on their marriage is unsustainable, and both characters deserve the opportunity to grow and find happiness—whether that’s together in the future or apart for good.
