Much to fans’ excitement, ABC recently announced that 9-1-1 would be returning for the 2025–2026 TV season. The eighth season is currently underway, with Episode 14, titled “Sick Day,” airing on Thursday, April 10. The network renewed most of its scripted programming with shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, The Rookie, High Potential, and Abbott Elementary returning for more episodes. Ryan Murphy’s Doctor Odyssey, which shares a universe with 9-1-1, remains in limbo. When speaking with ScreenRant, Oliver Stark, who plays Buck, teases something “big” and “spectacular” on the horizon. The actor is looking forward to season 8, episode 15 airing, although he shares it was 14 in terms of production. Stark discusses his enthusiasm for the upcoming installment, commending the cast and crew’s great work. Check out his full response below:
Oliver Stark: 15 is a really excellent episode of the show. We shot it as 14, but it will air as 15. I think it’s one of those episodes where you go, “Wow, that’s really great work.” They really put [in] a lot, and I don’t mean for myself, but from the whole cast, and also production-wise. I just think it’s really big and spectacular and one of these episodes, and we’ve had a number of them over the years, where I go, “[I] can’t believe that’s for network television. I can’t believe that’s for procedural network television.” There’s really a lot that goes into it. So I’m really excited for the audience to get to enjoy all the work that went into it.
“I Can’t Believe That’s For Network Television”: Oliver Stark Teases “Really Big” Season 8 Episode
Network television is no stranger to drama, but 9-1-1 is on another level. When Oliver Stark—our favorite firefighter, Buck—says “I can’t believe that’s for network television,” you better believe we’re in for something massive. If you’ve been riding the emotional rollercoaster that is 9-1-1, buckle up, because Season 8 is about to hit turbo mode.
Let’s break it down and see what exactly has fans (and Stark himself!) buzzing.
Why 9-1-1 Is Still Dominating Primetime TV
9-1-1 has been a powerhouse since day one. Created by the dynamic duo Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, the series isn’t just your average procedural drama. It dives deep into the lives of first responders in LA, blending high-octane rescues with raw, emotional storytelling.
But Season 8? It’s different. It’s bigger. It’s bolder. It’s making people say, “Wait, that’s on FOX?”
What Did Oliver Stark Actually Say?
During a recent interview, Stark teased a certain episode in Season 8, saying. “I can’t believe that’s for network television. It’s a really big episode.”
Now, Oliver Stark isn’t one for hyperbole. If he’s stunned, we know something epic is coming.
What Could This “Really Big” Episode Be About?
A Catastrophic Rescue Gone Wrong?
The show is famous for its disaster episodes—earthquakes, tsunamis, plane crashes. Could we be looking at another city-wide catastrophe?
A Major Character Death?
Let’s be real: 9-1-1 has never been shy about ripping our hearts out. Could this be the episode that changes everything?
A Shocking Plot Twist?
Stark’s words hint at something unprecedented. Could a beloved character betray the team? Or are we looking at a time-jump, alternate timeline, or even a crossover?
Behind The Scenes – How 9-1-1 Keeps Raising The Bar
The Writers Aren’t Holding Back
The writers have clearly embraced the challenge of outdoing themselves each season. For Season 8, they might just break the mold.
Stunt Coordination That Rivals Hollywood
We’re talking car crashes, collapsing buildings, and full-blown explosions—and all done on a TV budget.
H3: Emotional Arcs That Hit You In The Gut
It’s not just action. It’s about connection. Every call affects the characters deeply—and that’s what hooks viewers.
Buck’s Journey – Why This Episode Could Be Personal
Oliver Stark’s Buck has been through the wringer. From tragic losses to heroic saves, he’s grown into one of the show’s emotional anchors.
Could This Episode Center Around Buck?
Given Stark’s excitement, it’s very possible that Buck is at the heart of this story.
Personal Stakes = Higher Impact
Episodes where Buck is emotionally involved tend to leave a bigger impact. So what if this one puts everything he loves on the line?
The Impact Of Streaming On Network Shows Like 9-1-1
Streaming has raised the bar for TV storytelling, and 9-1-1 is rising to the occasion.
Competing With Netflix & HBO
To stay relevant, network shows need to go big or go home. This may be 9-1-1’s way of saying, “We’re not done yet.”
High Production Quality Is The New Norm
Fans expect more than before, and 9-1-1 delivers—visually and emotionally.
Fan Reactions – The Internet Is Already Buzzing
Even before the episode drops, the hype is real.
Reddit Threads Are Exploding
Speculation is off the charts. From theories to fan fiction, it’s all happening.
The 9-1-1 fandom is vocal, creative, and always ready with a meme or two. When Stark spoke, they listened—and they posted.
What To Watch For In Season 8’s Big Episode
Visual Effects That’ll Make You Gasp
Expect movie-level quality effects that push the limits of what network TV can do.
A Gut-Punch Of A Cliffhanger
If we know 9-1-1, they’re going to leave us hanging… hard.
H3: Performances That Deserve Awards
When the stakes are high, the acting soars. Get ready for some Emmy-worthy scenes.
What Oliver Stark’s Excitement Really Tells Us
Actors usually keep things vague, but Stark didn’t hide his awe. That says a lot.
This Isn’t Just Hype
Stark’s been with the show for years. If he’s impressed, it’s worth paying attention.
Trust The Cast, Trust The Process
The cast of 9-1-1 always delivers. If they’re saying this episode is next level, we’re all in.
Could This Episode Be A Turning Point For The Series?
Every show has its defining moment. This could be 9-1-1’s.
Possibly Setting Up A Spinoff?
A big episode might launch new characters or plotlines that branch into new territory.
Raising The Stakes For The Finale
If this isn’t the finale, it might be what sets up the biggest finale yet.
