chicago fire why kelly severides tribute to benny severide will leave you in tears chicago fire 707 kelly severide wallace boden

For fans of Chicago Fire, few moments resonate as deeply as Kelly Severide’s eulogy for his father, Benny, in Season 7, Episode 7, titled “What Will Define You.” The emotionally charged scene underscores not only the complexity of their relationship but also the enduring legacy of Benny Severide within the Chicago Fire Department (CFD). The poignant storyline sheds light on themes of family, forgiveness, and sacrifice—key elements that keep viewers returning to this beloved series.

A Complicated Father-Son Bond

Benny Severide, played by the late Treat Williams, was a legendary firefighter known for his courage and determination. However, his professional heroics often came at the expense of his family. According to NBC Insider, Benny’s absentee parenting shaped much of Kelly’s early resentment, setting the stage for a strained yet evolving relationship. Over the course of the series, glimpses of vulnerability allowed viewers to see how deeply Kelly’s perception of his father influenced his own path as a firefighter.

In the heartbreaking turn of events leading up to this episode, Benny’s sudden death from a stroke leaves Kelly grappling with unresolved emotions. While Benny was far from the ideal father, his heroism and commitment to the fire service were undeniable. This duality becomes the foundation for Kelly’s touching tribute.

The Eulogy: A Heart-Wrenching Farewell

The funeral scene, set in a somber church filled with friends, family, and colleagues, captures Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) at his most vulnerable. As reported by NBC Insider, Kelly begins his eulogy with a touch of humor, recounting Benny’s boastful stories about his exploits as a firefighter. However, his tone quickly shifts as he recounts Benny’s most heroic act: saving seven lives during the infamous Paxton Hotel fire, even as the building threatened to collapse.

Kelly’s words are laden with admiration and lingering pain. “He always had to do things his own way. He was stubborn and tough. Sometimes too tough,” he reflects, highlighting Benny’s complex character. “But every now and then, when you needed him the most, he’d have your back. Whether you knew it or not, no matter what the cost.”

As Kelly’s voice breaks, the audience witnesses the depth of his internal conflict—a mix of lingering bitterness and profound respect. His emotional goodbye culminates in him placing his medal of honor on Benny’s coffin, a symbolic gesture of closure and gratitude. “Sleep tight, Dad. You earned it,” he says, leaving the congregation and viewers alike in tears.

An Unforgettable Sendoff

The emotional intensity of the funeral reaches its peak when Severide and Chief Wallace Boden (Eamonn Walker) lead the pallbearers in carrying Benny’s casket. Outside the church, a stunning tribute unfolds: fire trucks from across the city arrive, filled with uniformed firefighters paying their respects to one of their own. The sight of the CFD saluting Benny underscores his profound impact on the community, even as his personal flaws remain evident.

Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) and Benny Severide (Treat Williams) on Chicago Fire Season 4 Episode 7. Photo: Elizabeth Morris/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank
Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) and Benny Severide (Treat Williams) on Chicago Fire Season 4 Episode 7. Photo: Elizabeth Morris/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank

As Kelly stands amidst this powerful display of unity and honor, the weight of his father’s legacy becomes clear. The juxtaposition of grief and pride highlights the complicated ways in which family and duty intersect, leaving a lasting impression on both the character and the audience.

Why This Scene Matters

The eulogy scene encapsulates what makes Chicago Fire so compelling: its ability to balance thrilling action with deeply human stories. Benny’s death and Kelly’s tribute serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders, both on and off the job. Moreover, the storyline illustrates how individuals navigate the emotional complexities of forgiveness and legacy.

For Kelly, the moment is transformative. His speech signifies a turning point in his journey, as he comes to terms with the man his father was—and, by extension, the man he hopes to become. This reflection resonates with fans who have followed Severide’s evolution throughout the series, solidifying his status as one of the show’s most relatable and layered characters.

As Chicago Fire continues to explore themes of camaraderie, courage, and redemption, this episode remains a standout example of the series’ storytelling prowess. By intertwining the personal and the heroic, it captures the essence of what it means to serve and sacrifice.

More to read on Entertainment

fa3c4d80b1d65c92c78cbc23b1afafa6rakuten affiliate statics 1920x1080 1