When Kelly Severide was first introduced to fans, he was portrayed as a tough and rugged firefighter with a
reputation as a ladies’ man. However, things took a different turn with the arrival of Stella Kidd in season 4. The
chemistry between the two characters shook things up, and Kelly was changed for the better.
The duo’s origin story was revealed in season 4, episode 18, “On the Warpath,” after they both attended Randal “Mouch” McHolland’s wedding. Stella revealed that she and Kelly first met at academy training years prior to her joining Firehouse 51. Their story began with a grand romantic gesture, as Kelly rappelled down from Stella’s skylight singing Frank Sinatra’s “This Love of Mine” with a rose in his mouth. However, at the time, Stella was married, and Kelly didn’t know.
Despite the awkward start, the sexual chemistry between Kelly and Stella reached new heights in season 4, episode 21. Stella convinced Christopher Herrmann to invest in a fancy ice maker for Molly’s bar, but the machine malfunctioned, and Kelly came to the rescue, saving the day and sharing a passionate kiss with Stella for the first time.
The pair took their relationship to the next level in the season 4 finale, having sex at Stella’s apartment after a funeral for a fellow firefighter. Although they didn’t know it at the time, Stella’s ex-husband was lurking in the background, adding tension to their budding romance.
Season 5 brought a new wave of drama to the couple, as Stella’s ex-husband, Grant, started stalking her. Things came to a head when Grant attacked Stella behind Molly’s, and Kelly stepped in, stabbing him in a bid to protect her. However, Grant survived the attack, and Stella chose not to press charges, which caused tension between the couple and ultimately ended their romance prematurely.
Stella and Kelly’s paths crossed again when she crashed at his place at the beginning of season 6. Although they initially lived as roommates, Stella got transferred out of Firehouse 51, and they eventually started re-kindling their romance.
As they started officially dating in season 6, episode 15’s “The Chance to Forgive,” they were forced to navigate their feelings for each other. Kelly was hesitant at first, but Stella’s persistence paid off, and they shared a romantic kiss, marking the beginning of their official relationship.
Throughout their romance, Stella and Kelly faced several challenges, including Kelly’s ex, Renee, coming back into his life, and Stella meeting his mother, who wasn’t exactly welcoming. However, by season 6, episode 19, “Where I Want to Be,” they were back on solid ground, and their love for each other was strong. Despite living apart, Kelly made it clear that he wanted to be with Stella, stating, “Wherever you are, is where I want to be.”