1. Sudden mid-season decision
In early 2023, Taylor Kinney announced a temporary break from filming for personal reasons.
At that time, the Chicago Fire crew had filmed a few episodes of the first season 11, but the script for the rest was not yet complete.
The absence of a key character forced the screenwriter to urgently adjust many plot lines.
2. How the screenwriter handled Severide’s absence
Kelly Severide was a pillar of Rescue Squad 3, and one of the two “souls” of Firehouse 51 (along with Casey).
To reasonably explain the absence, the screenwriter chose:
Severide was sent to Alabama for advanced fire investigation training.
From then on, other characters constantly mentioned Severide’s name to maintain connection:
Stella Kidd (his wife) talked on the phone or sent text messages.
Squad 3 colleagues occasionally talk about Severide.
Not giving an exact date for Severide’s return – opening the way for many scenarios.
This is a soft approach to:
Not killing the character or writing a reason that is too negative.
Maintaining hope that Severide will return.
3. Direct impacts on the scenario
a) Rescue Squad 3’s plot is clearly affected
Complex rescue missions – which are Severide’s strength – are reduced in frequency or relegated to supporting roles.
Some action scenes are prioritized by the writers for Truck 81 or other teams.
b) The “Stellaride” love story is on hold
Season 11 is expected to have many stories revolving around Severide and Kidd’s marriage.
With Severide away, Kidd has to face work pressure and loneliness alone.
The script shifted to exploit Kidd’s anxiety and frustration, instead of developing a romantic relationship.
c) The main character gap
Casey left the show, Severide was absent, forcing the screenwriter to strengthen the roles of other characters:
Sam Carver appeared more to fill the Squad 3 void.
Cruz and Boden had more roles.
Brett and Kidd became the “emotional center” for many episodes.
4. Reactions from the audience and the crew
Fans were very worried because Severide was the favorite character of many people.
On social networks, many viewers shared that they felt “lost their soul” when both Casey and Severide did not appear.
However, the majority supported Taylor Kinney’s decision to take a leave of absence for legitimate personal reasons.
The crew affirmed that they were always waiting for Taylor to return at any time.
5. Severide Returns: Positive Signals
At the end of season 12, Taylor Kinney officially returned to the set, making the fan community excited:
The script gradually brought Severide back to the center of rescue missions.
The “Stellaride” line continued to develop, promising many new dramas.
This is also a step to restore the “pair” Casey – Severide if Jesse Spencer returns for a long time.
Summary
Taylor Kinney’s temporary hiatus from filming has had a big impact on the plot: Squad 3 lost its mainstay. The Stellaride marriage plot was put on hold. Many supporting characters were pushed up to replace them.
However, the screenwriter’s smart handling kept Severide alive in the Chicago Fire world, maintaining a sense of connection and setting the stage for the series’ most anticipated comeback.
