Parenthood has always been a game-changer in the world of “Chicago Fire,” sometimes strengthening relationships and sometimes tearing them apart.

Over the years, fans have seen Gabriela Dawson fall in love with her foster son, Louie, only to lose him, ultimately leading to the downfall of her marriage

with Matt Casey. Her heartbreaking miscarriage and the devastating news that pregnancy could be fatal to her further cemented their tragic fate.

On the other hand, Joe Cruz embraced fatherhood with his adoption of Javi and later with his biological son, Brian, becoming a fiercely protective parent. Similarly, Sylvie Brett, herself an adoptee, paid it forward by adopting Julia, naming her after her birth mother.

But these narratives have often followed a familiar pattern—a team member finds a child, forms a bond, and then faces the inevitable tug-of-war with biological relatives. Whether the child stays or returns to their original family depends on the level of drama the writers want to infuse. Now, it seems like Stella Kidd and Kelly Severide are the next couple caught in the whirlwind of parenthood, as Season 12 hinted at a major turning point in their relationship.

A Shocking Proposal: Is Parenthood on the Horizon for Stellaride?

After enduring a tumultuous few seasons—marked by long separations, trust issues, and personal struggles—Stella and Kelly finally reunited in Chicago and worked hard to rebuild their marriage. Just as they seemed to be finding their footing again, Kelly stunned Stella by expressing his desire to have children and start a family soon. Given Stella’s passion for her career and the couple’s recent struggles, his sudden suggestion left her completely blindsided. His proposal raises big questions: Is he truly considering Stella’s feelings, or is he making this decision impulsively?

Chicago Fire Needs a Fresh Approach to This Parenthood Storyline

If “Chicago Fire” wants to explore Stellaride’s journey into parenthood, it needs to avoid rehashing past narratives. Predictable tropes—such as fertility struggles, a dramatic miscarriage, or finding an adoptable child with unforeseen complications—have been done before. Even a deceitful plot where Stella lies about birth control to avoid pregnancy would only add unnecessary tension to an already tested relationship.

Instead, the show has a chance to take a unique route. Perhaps Stella, always known for her strength and control, struggles with the physical and emotional toll of pregnancy. Maybe she grapples with the idea that she’s not a natural mother, finding herself frustrated and disconnected from the role, while Kelly seamlessly steps into fatherhood. Seeing a strong, capable character like Stella face internal conflict over motherhood could add depth to her story and break away from traditional portrayals of maternal instinct.

Could Kelly’s Newfound Family Impact His Perspective?

Another way “Chicago Fire” could shake things up is by tying Kelly’s fatherly instincts to his recently discovered half-brother, Jack Damon. Introduced in the Season 12 finale, Jack’s presence could ignite Kelly’s protective side, making him reconsider the timing of fatherhood. Could mentoring his younger brother fulfill his need to nurture, making him realize he isn’t ready for a child just yet?

As “Chicago Fire” gears up for its 13th season, fans are eager to see how Stellaride’s story unfolds. Will the show deliver a fresh take on parenthood, or will it fall back into familiar patterns? One thing is certain—whatever path the writers choose, the drama is far from over.