[Warning: The following contains significant spoilers for 9-1-1 Season 8 Episode 11 “Holy Mother of God.”]
The current season of 9-1-1 raises intriguing questions regarding the relationship between Buck (Oliver Stark) and Eddie (Ryan Guzman), as the show begins to explore these dynamics more openly.
Following Eddie’s departure to Texas to be closer to his son, Buck has taken up residence in Eddie’s home but has been spending nights at his sister Maddie’s (Jennifer Love Hewitt) place. Despite trying to make new friends, Buck finds himself preoccupied with thoughts of Eddie. After a night out with Ravi (Anirudh Pisharody), who remarks on Buck’s focus on Eddie, the situation intensifies when Buck brings home his ex-boyfriend Tommy (Lou Ferrigno Jr.).
The next morning, a joking comment from Tommy about Eddie not being a threat sparks a deeper conversation. Tommy implies that Buck’s feelings for Eddie might be more complicated than he admits. Producer Tim Minear suggests that Tommy’s casual comment hints at the emotional weight Eddie carries in Buck’s life, even if Buck initially pushes back against this idea.
During a chat with Maddie, Buck expresses his frustration at the idea that living in Eddie’s house means he is in love with him. Though he insists he isn’t pining for his straight best friend, he acknowledges that Eddie’s absence has left a significant void in his life. Stark emphasizes that Buck’s truth in that moment is genuine and reflective of his confused feelings, indicating that this issue hasn’t crossed Buck’s mind until now.
Upcoming episodes will feature more action-packed storylines, with less focus on Buck’s emotional journey, although there may be more exploration of these themes later in the season. Director Aisha Hinds praises the storyline as an opportunity to directly engage with audience questions surrounding Buck and his love life, especially reflecting viewers’ curiosity about the potential between him and Eddie.
As the show progresses, Buck is set to embark on a path of self-discovery, acknowledging his social challenges. Stark discusses Buck’s journey towards embracing his identity, emphasizing that while Buck may struggle with his feelings, he is starting to unpack not only his belongings but also his emotions. How fans perceive Buck’s feelings—especially towards Eddie—remains to be seen as the season unfolds.
9-1-1 airs Thursdays at 8/7c on ABC.
