Going into the season eight finale of 9-1-1, there were two things on everyone’s mind. Firstly, how would the 118 ever come back together after the devastating loss of Bobby Nash (Peter Krause)? And second of all, would Buck (Oliver Stark) and Eddie (Ryan Guzman) become a couple? “Buddie” (Buck and Eddie) is a wildly popular ship in 9-1-1 fandom and there have even been hints in the show that Buck’s feelings for Eddie verge onto the romantic. But when talking to TODAY about the finale, Oliver Stark wasn’t big on the idea of best friends Buck and Eddie hooking up, even though Buck’s ex-boyfriend Tommy (Lou Ferrigno Jr.) once described Eddie as “the competition” and Buck’s sister Maddie (Jennifer Love Hewitt) once asked her brother if he was in love with Eddie.
“I don’t think the idea is that Buck went home and looked in the mirror and said, ‘Wait, am I in love with Eddie?’ I think it came so far out of left field for him when Tommy first said it,” Stark said. “I don’t think the idea is that we were saying Buck now is questioning if that’s true.”
He went on,”And, you know, look, [showrunner] Tim [Minear] will make that decision if it is or not,” he adds. “But I don’t think in that moment that the story was now Buck is wondering if he is. I think Buck thought, ‘No, you’re absolutely wrong. What are you talking about?’ And yeah, we’ll go from there.”
All in all, Stark was more focused on Buck’s career and achievements. The Season 8 finale saw the 118 tackle a building collapse, and their combined efforts meant everyone made it out alive. In the aftermath, the team resolved to stay together, not split off in the wake of Bobby’s death.”There are different sides of Buck, and some of them are a bit sillier. I don’t know, he’s just like guileless and golden retriever-y, but there is no doubt that he’s an extremely adept firefighter,” Stark said. “So I think him being in the emergency is where he’s going to thrive and be able to do his best. I think it’s a chance as well to see this more mature, calmer, ‘let’s get to work’ version of Buck.
The 9-1-1 fandom has always been passionate, but nothing stirs the pot quite like the conversation around Evan “Buck” Buckley and Eddie Díaz. After the Season 8 finale, speculation about their future relationship—dubbed “Buddie” by fans—reached a fever pitch. Recently, one of the show’s stars addressed Buck’s feelings for Eddie and gave insight into what might lie ahead for the beloved duo.
Why ‘Buddie’ Has Captivated Fans
The friendship between Buck and Eddie isn’t your ordinary TV partnership. Their bond has been layered, emotional, and full of subtle moments that many interpret as more than just friendship. Fans have dissected everything—from their heartfelt conversations to lingering glances—sparking theories that “Buddie” could one day become canon.
The Power of Subtext in TV Storytelling
Sometimes what’s not said speaks louder than what’s said outright. The writers of 9-1-1 have built a strong foundation for Buck and Eddie’s relationship, leaving breadcrumbs for the audience. Whether intentional or not, these subtle hints have given fans plenty to talk about. Think about it: two men who trust each other with their lives, raise a child together, and lean on each other in moments of crisis—it’s no wonder the fandom imagines a deeper connection.
What the 9-1-1 Star Revealed
In a recent interview, a cast member acknowledged the chemistry between Buck and Eddie. While they didn’t confirm a romance, they addressed Buck’s emotional growth and how Eddie fits into his world. According to them, Buck’s journey isn’t just about who he loves but how he understands himself. Still, they hinted that the showrunners know just how important “Buddie” is to the fans.
Season 8 Finale: The Turning Point
The finale gave viewers plenty to unpack. Buck faced life-changing decisions, and Eddie’s role in those moments didn’t go unnoticed. Their scenes together felt more intimate than ever, sparking questions about whether the writers are preparing fans for a bigger reveal in Season 9.
Buck’s Emotional Evolution
Buck started as the fun-loving, reckless firefighter, but over the seasons, we’ve watched him grow. His struggles with identity, love, and family make him one of the most relatable characters on 9-1-1. His bond with Eddie adds another layer to that story. Is it just friendship, or is there more? The ambiguity keeps viewers hooked.
Eddie’s Side of the Story
Eddie, a devoted father and loyal teammate, has always been portrayed as steady and grounded. But his relationship with Buck has chipped away at his walls. From trusting Buck with his son, Christopher, to confiding in him during moments of crisis, Eddie’s actions suggest a trust that runs deeper than words.
The Role of Christopher in ‘Buddie’
One of the strongest arguments for Buck and Eddie’s potential romance is Eddie’s son, Christopher. Buck has been a father figure in Christopher’s life, and fans see this as a sign of something bigger. Could the Diaz-Buckley trio evolve into a family unit? Many believe it’s the natural progression.
The Writers’ Balancing Act
Showrunners of 9-1-1 walk a fine line. They know fans are invested in “Buddie,” but they also want to maintain creative freedom. Pushing the relationship too fast could feel forced, while ignoring it entirely risks alienating viewers. The interview hints suggest they’re aware of this delicate balance.
Representation Matters
Part of why “Buddie” matters so much is representation. Fans crave LGBTQ+ storylines that feel authentic and heartfelt. The idea of two male first responders navigating love while balancing high-stakes careers resonates with viewers who want to see themselves reflected on screen.
The Fandom’s Impact on Storylines
It’s no secret that passionate fandoms can influence television. The “Buddie” supporters are vocal, creative, and relentless. Their fanfiction, fan art, and social media campaigns keep the conversation alive, making it impossible for writers to ignore. Could fan demand eventually push “Buddie” into reality? History shows it’s possible.
Comparisons to Other TV Duos
“Buddie” isn’t the first pair of characters to spark a passionate following. Think of shows like Supernatural (Dean and Castiel) or Sherlock (Sherlock and John). The difference with Buck and Eddie? Their chemistry feels grounded in realism, not just fantasy. That makes the ship even stronger.
The Road Ahead: Season 9 Predictions
So, what’s next for Buck and Eddie? While the star’s comments didn’t confirm a romance, they hinted at “more layers” to explore in Season 9. That leaves the door wide open. Whether or not “Buddie” becomes canon, their bond will continue to evolve in ways that keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Why Fans Shouldn’t Lose Hope
Even if the show doesn’t immediately dive into a romantic storyline, the emotional depth between Buck and Eddie is undeniable. Their connection already defies labels. Sometimes the slow burn is what makes the payoff that much sweeter.
Behind the Scenes: Cast Chemistry
Part of what makes “Buddie” work is the genuine friendship between Oliver Stark (Buck) and Ryan Guzman (Eddie). Their off-screen bond translates seamlessly on-screen, making every interaction feel authentic. It’s hard not to root for characters when the actors clearly respect and support each other.
The Bigger Picture of 9-1-1
At its core, 9-1-1 is about human connection in the face of crisis. Whether it’s love, friendship, or family, the show thrives on exploring relationships. Buck and Eddie are a prime example of how two characters can capture hearts while still leaving room for interpretation.
Conclusion: The Future of ‘Buddie’
The Season 8 finale reignited the “Buddie” debate, and recent comments from a 9-1-1 star have only fueled the fire. While nothing is set in stone, the chemistry between Buck and Eddie is undeniable. Whether they remain best friends, evolve into partners, or continue their journey with unspoken tension, one thing is certain—Buddie is here to stay in the hearts of fans.
