*Chicago Fire* has returned for Season 13, opening with significant development regarding Lieutenant Stella Kidd, portrayed by

Miranda Rae Mayo. Following the cliffhanger at the end of Season 12 that left fans questioning whether Stella and her husband, Kelly

Severide (Taylor Kinney), were ready to start a family, the Season 13 premiere addressed this directly. The answer was clear: Stella is

not ready yet to take that step, allowing for deeper exploration of her character’s fears and motivations.

In an interview with Soaps.com, Mayo discussed Stella’s journey in Season 13 and her evolving relationship with Severide. She expressed her delight that the show chose not to rush into the couple having children, noting the complexity of the decision. “I really resonate with where she’s coming from… you’re never fully ready,” she explained, admitting that while she doesn’t have children herself, conversations with her friends who do reflect the fears surrounding motherhood.

For Stella, her apprehension stems from her perfectionist tendencies and the nature of her job. “Look at her job, look at all of the horrific things that she sees on a day-to-day basis,” Mayo emphasized. Stella’s profession as a firefighter exposes her to the dangers faced by children, and the first episode highlights this concern when she mentions that incidents involving kids fill her with dread. This theme is expected to recur throughout the season, adding depth to her character as she grapples with her fears.

Mayo also pointed out that part of Stella’s reluctance to have children at this time is rooted in her desire to prove herself as a competent leader. Recently promoted to truck Lieutenant, she feels a strong need to validate her capabilities, both in the eyes of her superiors, including Boden, and herself. “Having a kid right now would totally take her out of the action for a decent amount of time, at least a year,” Mayo noted, indicating that Stella isn’t completely closing the door on motherhood; she is simply prioritizing her career and personal growth first.

The arrival of a new Chief, Dom Pascal (Dermot Mulroney), adds another layer of complexity to Stella’s situation. Immediately clashing with Pascal, Kidd feels that his approach lacks genuine curiosity about the team. Mayo explained that to Stella, Pascal’s insistence on evaluating the team’s methods comes off as a power play rather than an opportunity for collaboration. Her protective instincts for Firehouse 51 fuel her irritation, especially given the absence of Boden during this transition.

As the season progresses, the relationship between Kidd and Chief Pascal is expected to evolve. Mayo hinted that it will take time for the team, including Stella, to truly understand Pascal, whose demeanor is notably cold and distant. “He is not a warm man, which is hilarious. Very, very opposite to Dermot,” she shared, suggesting that viewers will see a multifaceted character unfold as the season develops and more layers of his personality are revealed.

Stella’s struggle with her identity as a firefighter and her hopes for the future will likely resonate with many who balance professional aspirations with personal dreams. This season, *Chicago Fire* delves into themes of motherhood, leadership, and the challenges faced by women in high-stakes careers. As Stella navigates her fears and confronts her ambitions, viewers will witness a relatable and authentic portrayal of a woman at a crossroads.

In conclusion, Season 13 of *Chicago Fire* promises to be a compelling exploration of Stella Kidd’s character, providing insight into her emotional landscape and the pressures she faces both at work and at home. With the addition of new challenges and relationships, including the dynamic with Chief Pascal, fans can look forward to a season rich with drama, character development, and the continuous evolution of Stella’s journey.