After Bobby’s death, 9-1-1 has left an empty spot for most fans aside from those celebrating a relationship that now looks like it may never happen. It would take some time to catalog every actor who left 9-1-1, even if there are only technically half a dozen or so. Likewise, every viewer’s different tastes make it difficult to land on a definitive list of the best 9-1-1 episodes ever. However, viewers can agree on at least some things, and one thing that many seem to agree about is that a particular 9-1-1 romance needs to happen.
The most recent season hasn’t given fans an easy run of things. If it weren’t hard enough to stomach something as gory as Maddie’s 9-1-1 throat slitting, the storylines since then have only become even more depressing. Bobby died, Chimney nearly drank himself off the ledge of a building, and Buck almost left the 118 because he couldn’t handle Bobby’s death without Eddie living nearby. But for those who hoped Buck’s apparent feelings toward Eddie might lead to something more, things progressed a bit differently.
The 9-1-1 Season 8 finale, titled “Seismic Shifts,” left fans reeling—not just from the emotional loss of Captain Bobby Nash but also from the unresolved romantic tension between Buck and Eddie. For years, viewers have been rooting for the duo, affectionately known as “Buddie,” to transition from close friends to something more. But did the Season 8 finale dash those hopes? Let’s dive into the details.
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Season 8 Finale
The episode was a whirlwind of emotions. The tragic death of Captain Bobby Nash (Peter Krause) was a gut punch to fans. The team faced a massive explosion at a high-rise, leading to a perilous rescue mission. Chimney grappled with survivor’s guilt, and Athena began to heal, embracing her newborn grandson. Amidst the chaos, Eddie returned to Los Angeles, reuniting with his son and the team. Yet, amidst all these developments, the romantic arc between Buck and Eddie remained conspicuously absent .
The Buddie Phenomenon: A Slow-Burning Desire
For seasons, fans have noticed the undeniable chemistry between Buck and Eddie. Their deep conversations, shared glances, and moments of vulnerability have fueled speculation about a potential romance. Despite this, the showrunners have kept the relationship platonic, leading to a dedicated fanbase that passionately ships the pair. But with the Season 8 finale offering no resolution, many are left questioning the future of Buddie.
The Show’s Stance on LGBTQ+ Representation
While 9-1-1 has made strides in representing LGBTQ+ characters, the portrayal of Buck and Eddie’s relationship has been subtle. Actor Oliver Stark, who plays Buck, has hinted at the possibility of exploring Buck’s bisexuality, stating that if the storyline were to evolve, it would be handled “in a really sweet and authentic way” . However, the lack of concrete developments in Season 8 leaves fans in suspense.
What Does Season 9 Hold for Buddie?
With the confirmation of a Season 9, fans are hopeful that the show will finally address the growing tension between Buck and Eddie. The upcoming season could delve deeper into Eddie’s personal journey, especially his exploration of his own identity and desires. As Eddie continues to seek his “joy” and confronts his past, there’s potential for a romantic evolution with Buck .
The Fans Speak: A Divided Community
Social media platforms are abuzz with reactions. Some fans express frustration over the lack of progression, feeling that the slow-burn approach is becoming tedious. Others advocate for patience, emphasizing the importance of a well-developed storyline. One fan commented, “We have waited this long for a Buck and Eddie romance to happen in 9-1-1 — what’s one more season?” .
The Future of Buddie: Hope or Heartbreak?
As Season 9 approaches, the big question remains: Will Buck and Eddie finally get together? The show’s history suggests that it doesn’t shy away from bold storytelling choices. However, with the delicate handling of their relationship thus far, it’s uncertain whether the show will take the plunge into a full-fledged romance or continue to tease fans with tantalizing moments.
Conclusion: A Cliffhanger That Keeps Us Hooked
The Season 8 finale of 9-1-1 may not have provided the romantic resolution many fans hoped for, but it certainly set the stage for future developments. Whether it was a deliberate move to build anticipation or a missed opportunity, only time will tell how the Buddie storyline unfolds. As fans, all we can do is wait, hope, and continue to support our favorite duo.
FAQs
1. Will Buck and Eddie become a couple in Season 9?
While there’s no official confirmation, the ongoing tension and chemistry between the characters suggest that the possibility remains open.
2. Why hasn’t the show addressed Buck’s bisexuality?
The show has hinted at Buck’s potential bisexuality, but it has been a subtle narrative. The creators may choose to explore this aspect more deeply in future seasons.
3. How did fans react to the Season 8 finale?
Reactions were mixed. While some fans were disappointed by the lack of romantic progression, others appreciated the emotional depth of the episode.
4. What can we expect from Eddie’s character in Season 9?
Eddie’s journey towards self-discovery and seeking “joy” will likely continue, potentially leading to a deeper exploration of his relationship with Buck.
5. Is there hope for a Buddie romance in the future?
While the future is uncertain, the strong fan support and the characters’ undeniable chemistry keep the hope alive.
