If there’s one thing Chicago Fire fans know for sure, it’s that Kelly Severide may be all business when the alarms sound — but off-screen, Taylor Kinney is pure comedy gold. With Season 14 set to premiere this fall, the actor has been doing more than just slipping back into turnout gear. He’s also been serving up laughs, reminding fans why he’s the heart and soul of the One Chicago family.

A Firetruck, a Horn, and One Perfectly-Timed Face

In August 2025, Kinney posted a quick Instagram video that had fans buzzing. Sitting in the front seat of a firetruck, the longtime Chicago Fire star looked as if he was ready for another tense scene. But just as the truck’s horn blared, Kinney pulled the goofiest face possible — breaking the serious vibe and proving once again that no one mixes charm and mischief quite like him. The clip instantly racked up likes, shares, and comments from viewers who can’t wait to see him back in action.

“Severide. Squad. All in sync for Season 14 #ChicagoFire,” the caption teased. And just like that, fans knew the countdown to premiere night had officially begun.

Kinney and Chicago: A Decade-Plus Love Story

While Kinney’s playful energy shines in these behind-the-scenes moments, his love for the show and its city runs deep. Back in 2022, he reflected on what it means to him to be part of Chicago Fire for so long.

“It’s never lost on me how special it is to be a part of something with the longevity this has,” he told Us Weekly. “It’s a testament to [creator] Dick Wolf and the team of people he puts together.”

And when TODAY asked him about filming in Chicago, his affection was crystal clear. “This is home,” Kinney said. “Times have changed, and the city has changed, and people have grown … The city has been good to me. I love the city. I’ve gotten to know it through my work.”

What to Expect When Season 14 Premieres

The long One Chicago summer hiatus is almost over, and NBC is ready to roll out the red carpet for its powerhouse Wednesday night lineup. All three shows — Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D. — return on Wednesday, October 1. Here’s how the night will look:

• 8/7c – Chicago Med

• 9/8c – Chicago Fire

• 10/9c – Chicago P.D.

As usual, episodes will also be available to stream next day on Peacock, making it easier than ever for fans to stay caught up with every fire, arrest, and operating-room crisis.

Behind-the-Scenes Vibes: A Circus at Firehouse 51

While the One Chicago series share a connected universe, their sets couldn’t feel more different. As Miranda Rae Mayo (Stella Kidd) revealed during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, each show’s energy mirrors its subject matter.

• At Chicago Med, she said, “It’s like a sophisticated dinner party … very elegant and mature.”

• At Chicago P.D., things are a little grittier, more no-nonsense.

• And at Chicago Fire? “It’s a circus,” Mayo laughed. “We’re loud, we’re laughing, very much like a firehouse. It’s vibrant.”

And at the center of that circus is Kinney, whose goofy energy keeps the cast and crew laughing through long shoot days — and keeps fans eagerly anticipating every new season.

Why Kinney Matters More Than Ever

Severide has long been one of the anchors of Chicago Fire, balancing high-stakes rescues with some of the show’s most emotional storylines. But off-screen, Kinney’s charisma and grounded nature may be just as important. In a series that thrives on adrenaline and drama, his lighthearted energy offers a reminder of what really keeps the One Chicago machine running: camaraderie.

As Season 14 heats up, fans can expect more jaw-dropping emergencies, more heart-stopping rescues, and, thanks to Kinney, more laughter behind the scenes. Whether he’s commanding a squad on-screen or making faces in a firetruck between takes, one thing’s for sure — Taylor Kinney is the spark that keeps Chicago Fire burning bright.