One of the outstanding characters in NBC's Chicago Fire is undeniably Stella Kidd, played by Miranda Rae Mayo. Fans have been curious about her absence in Season 13 Episode 9, "The Favor," as it's unusual for a key and fan-favorite character.
Mayo joined the cast of Chicago Fire in Season 4 and quickly gained popularity among viewers for her relationship with Severide and troubled relationship with her ex-husband Grant, in addition to her leadership and charisma.
She was a newly divorced woman when she stepped into Firehouse 51 and majorly focused on proving herself. Her determination to become a responsible firefighter earned her the position of lieutenant of Truck 81.
She even grabbed the manager's position at Molly's Bar when she convinced the bar owner and won a bar Olympics challenge. Stella Kidd managed to prove her skills, but she was still facing issues with her ex-husband, Smith Grant.
Despite the divorce, Kidd couldn't cut ties with him due to his addiction and mental health issues. The situation worsened when Smith began staking Stella and Severide, resulting in a confrontation in Season 5.
Due to this, Stell Kidd briefly distanced herself from Severide, but the two were always meant together. Continue reading to learn more about Stella Kidd in the Chicago Fire and her current whereabouts.
Exploring Stella Kidd's journey in the Chicago Fire TV series
Chicago Fire fans must have their own favorite characters. Among the highly adored is Miranda Rae Mayo's Stella Kidd. As mentioned above, Kidd has faced notable challenges in her life. From her issues with ex-husband Smith Grant to navigating problems during her relationship with Kelly Severide, her journey hasn't been less than a rollercoaster.
Mayo's Stella Kidd was introduced to fans in Season 4, in which she began as a determined single woman, giving it all to prove her leadership skills as a firefighter. Not only this, but she also believes that women should be motivated to join the firefighting career, as it still remains somewhat male-dominated.
Stella Kidd faced a major problem in the Chicago Fire Season 6 when she lost her apartment. However, Sevride has always been there for her and provided her with a space. Following their unavoidable chemistry, the two began dating by Episode 15 of the season.
They had a brief breakup and issues between Seasons 6 and 9, but fans finally witnessed the long-awaited moment in Season 10 when the two tied the knot. To date, it remains a memorable moment in the NBC drama, as the couple made it official.
Stella Kidd's injury and Girls on Fire program in Chicago Fire
Another key plot point in Stella Kidd's journey in Chicago Fire is her severe injury and the launch of her Girls on Fire program. Kidd faced a career-threatening injury in Season 7 during an apartment fire and was recommended an immediate lung surgery, which could have ended her career as a firefighter.
However, Severide involvement in the case brought an alternative procedure that saved Kidds' life and career. Since she has been positive about women joining the firefighting program, Stella Kidd launched the Girls on Fire program in Season 8.
She addressed the gender imbalance in the firefighting career and motivated girls about the field. Her leadership helped a girl named Kylie Estevez become an administrative assistant to Chief Boden. She was later welcomed as a part of Truck 46. This way, Stella Kidd accomplished her goal as a brave and motivated firefighter.
Also Read: Chicago Fire Season 13 Episode 10: Release date and time, what to expect and more
Why didn't Stella Kidd appear in Chicago Fire Season 13's midseason?
Chicago Fire Season 13 Episode 9 aired on January 8, 2025, and fans didn't see Stella Kidd, even during the celebration of Mouch and Herrmann's achievements. The episode begins with Joe Cruz meeting Flaco's cousin Junior, who threatens him to break the law.
The scene shifts to Mouch and Herrmann conversing at the Firehouse when the Chief suddenly calls them for a private discussion. It turns out the entire team of firefighters was waiting for the two to congratulate them on passing their exams.
Chief Pascal then asks everyone to pay attention during the morning briefing, but before that, he says:
"With Lieutenant Kidd out with the Girls of Fire program in Maryland, we got Chippy here who'll be a floater on this shift to replace Mouch... Mouch made rank. He's gonna be lieutenant on truck for this shift."
This way, Chicago Fire addresses Stella Kidd's absence, as she is currently busy with her program. The actress hasn't gone anywhere, and Kidd will hopefully return in the upcoming episode, as the synopsis shared on IMDb includes Kidd helping out a teacher.
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