Who is Benny in ‘Chicago Fire’?

In Chicago Fire, the fictional Firehouse 51 isn’t just about rescuing people from blazing infernos—its characters often grapple with intense personal dramas. Season 12 brings back the heat, with friendships and romances that seem just as volatile as the fires they face. And although the current cast is full of standout personalities, fans still remember Benny Severide, the character who left an indelible mark.

Benny Severide: The Firefighter with Flaws

Played by Treat Williams, Benny Severide is the father of Lieutenant Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney). Known for his dedication to firefighting, Benny’s personal life is full of complexities. His relationship with his son is sometimes fraught, yet it evolves as they learn to understand each other. Their shared bond over firefighting offers a touching look at family dynamics, and fans witnessed Kelly come to terms with Benny’s imperfections as they both matured.

Benny’s impact wasn’t just on Kelly; his interactions with the firefighting community also resonated. In a memorable storyline, Benny persuaded Commissioner Carl Grissom (Gary Cole) to rely on Chief Wallace Boden’s (Eamonn Walker) expertise, marking a significant moment of respect and support between the two men.

A Heartbreaking Farewell

Benny’s character arc came to an emotional end in season 7, episode 6, “All the Proof.” Fans were devastated to see him go, as the show revealed Benny’s unexpected death. Director Olivia Newman noted in an interview that this episode was particularly poignant for the cast and fans, given Benny’s complexity and Williams’s heartfelt portrayal.

The storyline of Benny’s passing was deeply impactful for Kelly, who discovered some of his father’s hidden sacrifices only after he was gone. This moment captured the bittersweet nature of their relationship—a mix of respect, love, and unresolved tension.

Benny’s Legacy and Williams’s Real-Life Influence

Benny Severide may no longer appear on Chicago Fire, but his presence lingers through Kelly and the crew’s memories. Williams’s portrayal drew on his own life experiences as a father, bringing authenticity to Benny’s character. Reflecting on their bond, Williams once said that Benny loved Kelly deeply but had difficulty expressing it, making his character feel as real as the fires they fought.

Though Treat Williams passed away in June 2023, his influence on Chicago Fire endures. His co-stars, including Kinney, fondly remember him as a mentor both on and off-screen. Benny’s absence leaves a void, but his legacy lives on as part of Firehouse 51’s story.