For more than a decade, Taylor Kinney has been a staple of NBC’s hit drama Chicago Fire, bringing intensity, quiet strength, and undeniable charm to the role of firefighter Kelly Severide. But while his career as Severide has cemented him as a fan favorite, newly resurfaced throwback photos from the actor’s early career have stunned longtime admirers—and raised fresh conversations about how far he’s come, both personally and professionally.

The unearthed images date back to 2006, when a then-25-year-old Kinney landed his first big television break as Luke Gianni on Fashion House, a short-lived primetime soap. That year, he stepped onto the red carpet at the MyNetwork TV Upfront Presentation looking almost unrecognizable compared to the rugged, seasoned firefighter audiences know today.

Gone were the streaks of salt-and-pepper hair that now add gravitas to his Severide persona. Instead, Kinney sported a full head of jet-black curls, accompanied by stubble that highlighted his strong jawline. His piercing green eyes—already as captivating then as they are now—were the true giveaway. Fans seeing the transformation couldn’t help but marvel: “Severide, is that really you?”

The Hiatus That Shook Firehouse 51

Kinney’s evolution isn’t only about looks—it’s also tied to the many changes in his career path. In January 2023, the actor shocked Chicago Fire viewers when he abruptly stepped away from the series for what NBC called “personal reasons.” While his already-filmed episodes aired through March, his absence was quickly felt by fans and castmates alike.

Details surrounding the break have remained scarce, though Kinney briefly reemerged on social media to honor the late Treat Williams, his Chicago Fire co-star and longtime friend. Beyond that tribute, he’s stayed largely private, fueling speculation about whether or not Severide will return full-time.

The timing of Kinney’s departure overlapped with the 2023 writers’ strike, which stalled production and created an added layer of uncertainty. Now, as season 12 approaches, NBC has confirmed that core cast members—including Miranda Rae Mayo (Stella Kidd, Severide’s on-screen wife), Hanako Greensmith, Kara Killmer, and David Eigenberg—will appear in fewer episodes due to budget constraints. That announcement only amplified fan anxiety over Kinney’s potential long-term absence.

Life Beyond the Firehouse

Away from the spotlight, Kinney’s personal life has also drawn public interest. The actor is currently dating model Ashley Cruger, with whom he’s been linked since 2022. Their relationship has been a source of quiet happiness for Kinney after a high-profile romance with pop superstar Lady Gaga.

Kinney and Gaga famously met in 2011 on the set of her “You and I” music video. Their whirlwind romance led to an engagement in 2015, but the pair parted ways a year later. Gaga later admitted the intense demands of filming A Star Is Born played a role in their split. Still, she reflected on the love they shared with tenderness: “Taylor and I have always believed we are soulmates… We really love each other.”

What Comes Next for Kinney—and Severide?

While NBC has remained tight-lipped about Kinney’s future on Chicago Fire, speculation continues to swirl. Will Severide return to Firehouse 51 as the steady, fearless leader fans adore? Or will the show move forward without one of its most iconic characters?

For now, all that’s certain is this: Taylor Kinney has grown from a fresh-faced Hollywood newcomer into a seasoned actor with both the scars and the stories of his journey etched into his face. Whether he’s rocking jet-black curls on an early red carpet or the silver-streaked style of a veteran firefighter, Kinney’s appeal remains undeniable.

And if his career has taught fans anything, it’s to expect the unexpected.