Chicago Fire: Is Severide going to get killed off in season 11?

Severide’s days are numbered. It was recently announced that actor Taylor Kinney would be stepping away from Chicago Fire to deal with a personal matter, which means the writers will have to concoct a reason for the character to step away.

Since the announcement came during a hiatus, we’ve yet to see how the groundwork will be laid for Severide’s departure. It’s fortunate for the writers, as it gives them more time to brainstorm, but it also makes it tough for fans, who are eager to find out why one of Fire‘s mainstays will be missing in action.

Would the show dare to kill Severide off? Let’s weigh the pros and cons of this possibility.

Is Taylor Kinney leaving Chicago Fire?

Upfront, we’d like to state that nobody wants to see Severide die. He’s been one of the core members of the 51 since Fire started, and his ties to the pilot episode feel more important than ever since Casey (Jesse Spencer) has gone.

Hypothetically, killing Severide off would fulfill the writers’ need to get him out of the show, and solidify his legacy as a heroic character. A death involving Severide would no doubt be heroic, with it likely occurring in the line of duty. It would devastate fans and characters alike, but it would also draw a lot of eyes and lead to discussion about the show’s future. It’s possible.

That being said, it’s not very probable. Representatives for Kinney have made it seem as though the actor is dealing with a temporary matter in his personal life, and will be returning to Chicago Fire whenever he is able.

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If this is the case, then it would be incredibly unwise to kill the character off. He remains one of the show’s biggest draws, and he’s involved with a handful of season 11’s biggest storylines. Getting rid of such a pivotal character would not only irk fans (understandably so), but it would undo a lot of the work that’s gone into making him a crucial part of the narrative.

So, the long and short of it is no, the show will not kill Severide off. The upside pales in comparison to the downside, so it’s much more likely that there will be a reason concocted for him to be gone for only a little while.

For the latest Chicago Fire season 11 spoilers and news, plus more on the entire series, follow the Chicago Fire category at One Chicago Center.