In a candid early 2025 interview with D’IDÉES Magazine, Miranda Rae Mayo, beloved for her powerful portrayal of Stella Kidd on NBC’s hit drama Chicago Fire, opened up about the profound and transformative impact the character has had on her personal life. Mayo revealed that stepping into Stella’s boots didn’t just challenge her as an actress; it pushed her to confront and conquer her own struggles with self-confidence and ego, proving that heroism isn’t just for the screen.

“Playing Stella has been transformative,” Mayo shared, her words highlighting the deep, almost symbiotic relationship between her acting craft and her personal journey. “She’s taught me so much about resilience and believing in yourself, even when things get tough. It’s been incredibly empowering.” For fans who admire Stella Kidd’s unwavering strength and leadership at Firehouse 51, it’s inspiring to hear that the character’s qualities are resonating so deeply with the actress bringing her to life. Mayo’s experience is a testament to how the roles performers inhabit can often mirror, and even guide, their own growth.

Beyond the Firehouse: Skincare Secrets and the Power of Community

But Mayo’s insights weren’t limited to her acting process. She also dished on her surprisingly simple, yet remarkably effective, approach to skincare. For those wondering how the star maintains her radiant glow, Mayo’s go-to products are refreshingly accessible: a B5 serum and La Roche-Posay moisturizer. Her routine proves that achieving healthy, glowing skin doesn’t demand a complicated regimen or a cabinet full of expensive products, but rather consistency and choosing effective, no-nonsense staples.

Beyond the external, Mayo emphasized the absolutely vital role her community of women plays in maintaining her overall well-being. “Surrounding myself with strong, supportive women is key,” she stressed. In a world often focused on individual achievement, Mayo’s powerful message about the necessity of female solidarity and support resonates deeply. “It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good from the inside out, and that connection is essential.” This highlights a holistic approach to wellness, where mental and emotional support are just as crucial as physical care.

Relatability in Hollywood: True Heroism Defined

Mayo’s candidness offers a refreshing and much-needed look into the life of a Hollywood star. She presents herself not just as a talented actress gracing our screens every week on Chicago Fire, but as a relatable woman who champions authentic self-care and the irreplaceable value of community. In an industry often perceived as superficial, Mayo’s transparency about confronting personal challenges—like self-confidence and ego—makes her even more admirable.

Her story is a powerful reminder that true heroism often begins not with battling fires or saving lives in a dramatic on-screen rescue, but with facing our own internal struggles. Whether it’s Stella Kidd leading her team through a dangerous blaze or Miranda Rae Mayo navigating her personal growth, the message is clear: resilience, self-belief, and strong connections are the cornerstones of a well-lived life. Miranda Rae Mayo truly embodies the spirit of a hero, both on-screen as Stella Kidd and off-screen as herself.