One Chicago is not a franchise known for getting Emmy nominations. Most procedural shows, especially the ones that lend themselves to multiple spinoffs and crossovers, do not get love from the Emmy voters. That being said, there’s been plenty of Emmy-caliber talent that has appeared in the franchise over the years.
Treat Williams was one such example. The actor left an indelible impression on Chicago Fire fans as Benny Severide, the father of Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney). He appeared in multiple seasons before his untimely death in June 2023.
Treat Williams earned his second Emmy nomination
That being said, Williams’ legacy endures. The actor was nominated for an Emmy Award on July 17, for what turned out to be his final screen performance. Williams played William S. Paley, a CBS exec and ladies’ man, in the FX miniseries Feud: Capote vs. the Swans. He was subsequently nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor In a Limited or Anthology Series Movie.
This is Treat Williams’ second Primetime Emmy nomination. He was previously recognized for his work in the TV movie The Late Shift (1996), which recounted the feud between Jay Leno and David Letterman in the early 1990s.
Despite being written off Chicago Fire before his death, Treat Williams was fondly remembered by the ensemble cast. The actor who played his son, Taylor Kinney, was particularly affected by his death. Kinney issued a statement in tribute to Williams in the days following his passing.
Williams’ character is still important on Chicago Fire
“He played my father on Chicago Fire, and was a father figure to everyone on set,” Kinney wrote. “I’ll always relish our conversations and his uncanny ability to light up a room. We all send love, he will be missed.” The actor also sent prayers to Williams’ family.
Despite his absence, Williams’ Chicago Fire character continues to play a major role in the show. In the season 12 finale, Severide discovers he has a half brother named Jack Damon (Michael Bradway). The two men bonded over their late father in the show’s final moments, suggesting that they will have to contend with the loss of Benny in the upcoming season.
