Buckle up, Chihards, because we’ve got a lot to unpack with this episode. Chicago Fire‘s “Rattle Second City” brought on all kinds of emotions, and that cliffhanger just about had me screaming at my TV. Needless to say, the season premiere did not disappoint.
Three Cheers For Stella Kidd

I am so here for Lieutenant Stella! She absolutely shined this episode and it’s about time she got the recognition she deserves. Stella is going to make an amazing Lieutenant and if you don’t think so, we probably haven’t been watching the same show. Real talk, though. The fact that she wanted to bring Girls on Fire back because she cared about those girls, and wanted to show them that they can have a bright future, shows just what am amazing leader Stella is going to be. Nobody deserves this more.
While I love that Stella is finally getting the promotion she deserves, I can’t help but wonder what that means for her future at 51. Now I’m just thinking logically here, so don’t shoot the messenger. Severide is already Lieutenant of Squad, Casey is Captain of truck, and Herrmann is Lieutenant of Engine. So unless there’s another rig somewhere at 51 that we don’t know about, I just don’t know how she’s logically gonna be able to stay. But fingers crossed it all works out, because I love Stella Kidd and I’m not ready to lose her yet.
All the Brettsey Feels
The Brettsey scenes in tonight’s episode were everything. I am falling more and more in love with this ship every episode. Casey is so protective of Brett and it’s adorable. I’m patiently waiting for the moment when they finally get together.
Brettsey bonding over a game of accents was too cute. It was one of my favorite scenes in this episode. It was cute and funny and you could clearly see the chemistry between them. Brettsey is not everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s okay. But I absolutely love them and can’t wait to see more.
Welcome to 51, Gianna Mackey

We finally got to meet Brett’s new partner! She’s only been on for one episode but I’m loving her already. I love that she already has connections to the firehouse since she grew up with Joe and Leon. Seeing joe being like an overprotective parent towards her was adorable. I hope we learn more about her during season 9 and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the season has in store for her.
Gianna seems to be fitting right in at the firehouse and is getting along with everyone so far. So much so, in fact, that there already seems to be a romance brewing between her and Gallo. I gotta be honest though, I’m not sure how I feel about this ship. I just wish that both of them would find love outside of firehouse, especially if they already seem to be having two in-house romances with Brettsey and Stellaride. Regardless, I’m glad Gianna is officially a member of 51.
A Rough Day for Ambulance 61

I just need the universe to leave my favorite paramedics alone. This episode was rough for them. I mean, it doesn’t get much rougher than having a gun pointed at your head and then getting run off the road by the same guy who pointed said gun at your head. The girls handled it well, though, and I can’t wait to see how that storyline ends.
This was another one of my favorite storylines. I hated seeing Brett and Gianna in danger, but I loved seeing Brett shine and take charge like the badass I know she is. Brett has one of the biggest hearts and is known to be a bit of a softy, so it’s nice seeing not take no crap from anybody. Real talk though, Brett and Gianna better be okay, and the writers better stop putting Brett and her partners in dangerous situations.
Stand Out Scene
Boden telling Stella he wanted her to take the Lieutenant’s test was so sweet. I love that he’s always had her back and that he believes in her. It’s been clear that he sees her potential, and I’m glad that he finally told her how much potential he sees in her.
Seeing the support system Stella has made me so happy. She deserves people having her back and encouraging her to achieve her greatness. And I’ve gotta say, Severide and Boden are two people I’d want to have in my corner.
Best Lines
Boden: Stella Kidd, you are courageous, intelligent, fierce, and honorable. And that’s the very definition of a leader. It’s time everyone got to see it.
Gallo: This house, we look after each other.
Stella: Ask Severide when he doesn’t want to watch The Bachelor with me. He’s seen every episode.
Boden: When this community calls, we respond. When it raises its hand, we pull it to its feet.
What did you think of the premiere, Chihards? Let us know in the comments.
Watch Chicago Fire Wednesdays at 9/8C on NBC.
Totally agree with your review and, I think that it’s time for the Brettsey ship to sail and be happy. I am also not too sure about the Gallo/Mackey connection and found it a bit strange that the whole “Violet” thing is gone…did I miss when that happened. And Cruz being such a big brother was fine at first, but got a bit much towards the end and I like how Mackey shut him down, especially asking Gallo out. Now for the next episode…can’t wait