In the world of television drama, few names carry as much weight as Taylor Kinney. As the face of Kelly Severide for over a decade, Kinney has become the backbone of Chicago Fire.1 However, as we move through December 2025, a cloud of speculation has gathered over Firehouse 51. Rumors regarding Kinney’s health and a potential permanent exit have resurfaced, leaving the “Chi-Hard” fandom in a state of high anxiety. But what is actually happening behind the scenes?
The Origin of the Rumors: A History of Absences
To understand the current concern, we have to look back at Kinney’s history with the show. In early 2023, the actor took an unexpected leave of absence to deal with a “personal matter.”2 This led to a year-long gap where Severide was written off-screen to pursue arson investigation training in Texas.3
The Current Speculation in December 2025
As of late 2025, social media platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) have been buzzing with fan theories. Some viewers have pointed to what they perceive as changes in Kinney’s “energy” and “speech patterns” in recent episodes of Season 13 and 14. While these are largely subjective fan observations, they have fueled a narrative that the actor may be struggling with undisclosed health issues that could hinder his long-term participation in the grueling filming schedule of a procedural drama.
Official Responses and Contract Status
Despite the whispers, it is important to look at the official record. In June 2025, major outlets reported that Taylor Kinney had officially inked a new deal to return for the 2025-2026 season (Season 14).4 This suggests that, at least from a professional standpoint, both Kinney and NBC are committed to keeping Kelly Severide in the mix.
The Physical Toll of Firehouse 51
Playing a firefighter isn’t just about acting; it’s a physically demanding job. The heavy gear, the smoke machines, and the long outdoor shoots in the brutal Chicago winter take a toll on any performer.
The Challenges of Longevity in Action Roles
Kinney has been with the franchise since 2012.5 After 13 years of performing stunts and maintaining the peak physical condition required for a Squad leader, it wouldn’t be surprising if an actor sought a lighter workload. This is often the primary reason long-term stars move toward “recurring” status or take sabbaticals.
Mental Health and Personal Privacy
When Kinney took his leave in 2023, he asked for privacy, and both the network and his castmates respected that boundary. If there are health issues currently at play, Kinney has chosen to keep them private, which is his right. The “health issues” being cited in recent viral posts haven’t been confirmed by his representatives or the show’s producers.
What Happens to Kelly Severide if Kinney Leaves?
The writers have already laid the groundwork for a world without Severide, though nobody wants to see it.
The “OFI” Path: A Permanent Shift?
In recent seasons, Severide has become more involved with the Office of Fire Investigation (OFI). This storyline provides a “safe” way to keep the character in the universe without requiring him to be on the front lines of every fire. It could serve as a middle ground—allowing Kinney more rest while keeping the character’s legacy alive.
The Stella Kidd Factor
With Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) now a Lieutenant and a leader in her own right, her character is more than capable of carrying the emotional weight of the show. Spoilers for the end of 2025 have even hinted at a potential pregnancy for the couple, which would offer a natural narrative reason for Severide to take a “desk job” or step back from the dangers of the field.
Taylor Kinney’s Career Beyond the Firehouse
| Project | Role | Status |
| Chicago Fire (Season 14) | Kelly Severide | Confirmed Regular |
| “Holiday Magic” (Movie) | Aiden Winter | Released Dec 2025 |
| Jimmy (Biopic) | Supporting Role | Rumored / Development |
Why Fans are Extra Concerned Right Now
The timing of these rumors coincides with a period of massive transition for One Chicago. With the exit of Eamonn Walker (Boden) as a series regular and the loss of other staples like Sam Carver (Jake Lockett) and Darren Ritter (Daniel Kyri) in recent storylines, fans feel that losing Kinney would be the final blow to the show’s original identity.
The Power of the Fandom
The One Chicago community is incredibly protective. This is why a simple comment about an actor looking “tired” can spiral into a viral health scare within hours. It is a testament to how much fans love the character of Kelly Severide.
Conclusion: Proceed with Caution
As of December 20, 2025, there is no official confirmation that Taylor Kinney is leaving Chicago Fire due to health issues. While his previous leave of absence and fan observations keep the conversation alive, his recent contract renewal indicates he is staying for the foreseeable future. Until Taylor or NBC releases a formal statement, fans should take “emergency exit” rumors with a grain of salt and continue to enjoy Severide’s journey on Wednesday nights.
