The characters on 9-1-1 have navigated through a multitude of intense challenges, but one character stands out for consistently experiencing extreme turmoil. Buck, portrayed by Oliver Stark, has faced life-threatening situations including an explosion, a pulmonary embolism, being struck by lightning, and surviving a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami. However, it is Buck’s tumultuous love life that poses the greatest challenges for him. As one of the most sought-after bachelors at the 118 Firehouse, the ABC series frequently places him in various romantic situations. Following his most recent breakup, it may be time for the writers of 9-1-1 to allow Buck some time to embrace singlehood and focus on personal growth.

Buck Explores Romantic Relationships Throughout ‘9-1-1’

Buck is rarely seen as a long-term singleton, as his character has a history of entering into relationships quickly. In Season 1, he shares a significant romantic connection with Abby Clark (Connie Britton), and for several seasons, he finds himself involved with Taylor Kelly (Megan West). While their relationship was fraught with drama, it managed to last longer than many of his other romantic endeavors. Additionally, Buck dated Ali Martin (Tiffany Dupont) in Season 2 and the death doula Natalia Dollenmeyer (Annelise Cepero) in Season 6. These experiences illustrate that Buck has indeed matured through each relationship, evolving from the flirtatious playboy he once portrayed. However, it raises the question of whether he possesses the necessary emotional maturity to sustain a long-term partnership.

In Season 7, Buck experiences a pivotal moment when he publicly comes out as bisexual. Shortly afterward, he begins a relationship with fellow firefighter Tommy Kinard (Lou Ferrigno Jr.), who appears to be accepting of Buck’s new identity. As they navigate their partnership, some challenges arise, particularly with Buck’s initial discomfort in coming out to his friends and Eddie often feeling like a third wheel in their dynamic. In Episode 6 of Season 8, Tommy ultimately breaks up with Buck, explaining that as his first love, he understands that he won’t be Buck’s last. He emphasizes that Buck must gain more experience and fully embrace his identity before he can settle down in a meaningful relationship.

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Why Buck Needs Time to Heal After His Breakup

Following his recent breakup, Buck is heartbroken and has turned to baking as a therapeutic distraction. He confides in his friends that each time he feels the urge to contact Tommy, he channels that energy into creating new baked goods, resulting in an abundance of treats around him. By openly admitting to the 118 team that he still feels the temptation to text or call Tommy, Buck reveals that he is far from ready to dive back into the dating scene. Attempting to reach out to an ex so soon after a breakup clearly indicates that Buck should take a step back from dating. He requires additional time for healing and the necessary space to grow independently without the pressures of a new relationship.

Fans have eagerly awaited the potential for a romantic relationship between Buck and Eddie. If the show plans to explore this possibility, it is essential for Buck to spend considerable time being single first. His character development is crucial to avoid him becoming a mere “trainwreck” seeking casual encounters with anyone nearby. Rushing into a relationship with Eddie (Ryan Guzman) at this point would not be feasible, as such a partnership would demand significant emotional intelligence, especially given their status as best friends and co-workers. It is perfectly acceptable for Buck to embrace bachelorhood for the time being. Following Tommy’s advice, he might consider casually dating while ensuring he remains true to himself. Buck should prioritize discovering his own identity without compromising who he is to please a partner. The series would benefit from shifting its focus to the love lives of other characters for a while, allowing Buck the opportunity to develop into a more well-rounded individual with much more to offer beyond his romantic entanglements.

New episodes of 9-1-1 air on ABC on Thursday nights and are available for streaming the following day on Hulu in the U.S.

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Explores the high-pressure experiences of the first responders who are thrust into the most frightening, shocking, and heart-stopping situations.

Release Date

January 3, 2018

Cast

Angela Bassett, Boon Pin Koh, Deedee Magno, Diane Mizota, Kenneth Choi, Mark D. Espinoza, Pat Asanti, Peter Krause, Albert Malafronte, Dana Powell, Heather McPhaul, Livia Treviño, Zarah Mahler, Aidan Bristow, Andrew Lee, Andy Hoff, Cynthia Rose Hall, Demetrius Butler, Nikea Gamby-Turner, Jeff Pierre, Michael Andrew Baker, Rachel Breitag, Skye P. Marshall, August Maturo, Ty Parker

Seasons

6

Network

ABC, FOX

Streaming Service(s)

Hulu

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