
Kelly Severide and Stella Kidd are the most enduring couple, not only in Chicago Fire, but throughout the One Chicago franchise. They are both intelligent and hard-working firefighters who’ve been a staple for Firehouse 51 thanks to their quick thinking and ability to build strong bonds with their colleagues over time. Severide and Stella’s relationship had a rocky start since they were both just starting their careers, along with Kidd being in an abusive relationship with her first husband.
Stellaride has experienced several ups and downs, from splitting up several times due to busy work schedules to personal family dilemmas driving them apart. Despite their issues, Severide and Kidd always find their way back together because they love and respect one another’s humanity and work ethic. Now that Kidd and Severide are ready to start a family after marrying, the couple’s longevity from season to season is a testament to their strong relationship, making Chicago Fire must-see TV.
While Severide has been with Chicago Fire since the beginning of the show, Kidd makes her first appearance in season 4 when she is introduced to Firehouse 51. Right off the bat, it’s evident that Kelly and Stella already have a past relationship during their first on-screen encounter, but keep their business about their history quiet around the crew. It is revealed that they met at the academy, and Severide has been in love with Kidd, even trying to get her attention when singing Frank Sinatra’s “This Love Of Mine” with a rose in his mouth.
A few episodes later, Severide and Kidd have their first on-screen kiss at Molly’s bar while they are fixing an ice-maker machine, revealing their strong chemistry and appealing attraction towards one another. Their bond goes further during the season 4 finale as they make out in Stella’s apartment. However, problems ensue during the season 5 premiere as Stella’s ex-husband, Grant Smith, stalks and attacks her. Severide defends Stella by stepping in and stabbing Grant. Stella refuses to press charges against Smith, causing tension between her and Severide that lurks throughout the fifth season.
As Kelly and Stella announce their relationship at Firehouse 51, Severide’s ex-girlfriend, Renee Royce, comes to Chicago. Thankfully, Royce only needs Severide’s assistance on a case, and doesn’t impact his love for Stella. However, Kelly takes an emotional hit in season 7 when his father Benny dies, detaching himself from Stella and his loved ones. The couple’s status is in further turmoil when Stella’s childhood friend, Tyler, confesses his love for her. Stella breaks up with Kelly before rekindling their romance in the season 7 finale as Severide vows to be the man Kidd deserves in Benny’s cabin.
Kelly realizes his decision to leave Stella alone was a mistake, telling his girlfriend that he knows she’s capable of becoming a lieutenant. They vow to never let each other go and always support each other’s career, further signifying the love they share. After this, their relationship is taken to the next level when Severide proposes to Kidd inside a burning building, which Stella emphatically accepts. This marriage proposal proves that no matter what dangerous or harmful circumstances they face, Kelly and Stella will get through it together.