It’s fascinating how a single person can disrupt the dynamics of a team, especially in high-stakes environments like firefighting. Recent episodes of Chicago Fire have left fans concerned about the future of a beloved character as the show enters its thirteenth season.
While fans previously worried about Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) leaving the show, attention has now shifted to his wife, Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo). Although she’s not officially leaving, her complicated relationship with the new chief, Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney), raises alarms. Stella has always been dedicated to her career, but this new dynamic may put her position at risk.
In Season 13, Episode 3, titled “All Kinds of Crazy,” Stella reveals some crucial information about Severide’s half-brother, Jack Damon (Michael Bradway), to Pascal. She suggests he belongs in the floater pool due to his resistance to her leadership. Pascal’s chilling response—that he will determine who stays in the firehouse—suggests that he sees her leadership as part of the problem. This power play certainly changes the tone for their relationship.
Although the episode concludes with a somewhat positive note—Pascal allowing Stella to hire someone to fill Damon’s spot—there’s an underlying tension. If their clashes continue, fans fear Pascal might ultimately fire Stella, which would be a devastating turn for the show. She’s not only a fan favorite because of her marriage to Severide, but she also brings compassion and leadership to Firehouse 51, traits that Pascal seems to lack.
Miranda Rae Mayo discussed Stella’s struggles in an interview, noting that she feels the weight of expectations after Boden’s (Eamonn Walker) departure. Stella is navigating her own insecurities and dealing with the pressure to uphold Boden’s legacy. Additionally, the character’s fears about starting a family add depth to her storyline, making her relatable to viewers.
Mayo reassured fans that Stella will remain a central figure in Season 13, with multiple storylines lined up for her. The writers have emphasized their commitment to keeping her in the action, which should provide some comfort amid the uncertainty surrounding her relationship with Pascal.
As fans continue to tune in, the stakes are high for Stella, and her future on Chicago Fire remains a topic of concern.