9-1-1 will be heading into an uncertain future when the show returns for Season 9. As fans know, Captain Bobby Nash (Peter Krause) met his end in Season 8, leaving the 118 without a leader. While it will be difficult for the others to move on without Bobby, a new captain must be named. Per Principle Magazine, Evan “Buck” Buckley actor Oliver Stark commented on where things could go in 9-1-1 Season 9. He shared how filming will begin in “about a month,” so he hasn’t read any scripts just yet to know for sure. Noting how Bobby was a mentor for Buck, Stark would like to see his character step into that role for some of the younger characters on the show. With that noted, the actor also hinted that he doesn’t foresee Buck stepping up as the new captain, at least at this point in his life, as the character would see at least two others as stronger candidates for that position.
“I think Season 9 is gonna be about rebuilding and growing from that, seeing how it’s possible to grow from that, and restructuring of the 118, which is the firehouse in the show, and seeing how everybody can kinda come together and try and move forward,” he said. “Bobby was so instrumental to who Buck was on the show, and I really wanna see him carry that proudly and feel like he’s doing justice to all the things that he learned through Captain Nash. I want him to carry the banner and help the younger firefighters around him. We have a couple on the show, and so to almost step into that mentor role that Bobby was for Buck, I think it’s time for him to maybe start doing that for some others.”
It’s a job that Buck probably sees himself one day hoping to do, but I don’t think he would feel comfortable wanting that position now. On if Buck could become the new captain, Stark added, “It’s a job that Buck probably sees himself one day hoping to do, but I don’t think he would feel comfortable wanting that position now. I think he looks at Hen and Chimney and he’s like, ‘Those are the people that I look up to.’ They’re every bit cut from the same cloth as Bobby was, and I think he’d have nothing but admiration and respect for Chimney in the role.”
What if Buck steps into Bobby’s shoes next season on 9-1-1? It sounds like a wild twist—but it’s one that fans are buzzing about after a recent interview with a cast member. With 9-1-1 Season 9 on the horizon and a potential power shift in the 118, fans are wondering if Evan “Buck” Buckley is being groomed to take over the captain’s chair. Let’s break down everything we know, what was said, and what this might mean for the future of the show.
The Big Reveal – What the 9-1-1 Star Actually Said
A Subtle Tease or a Major Spoiler?
In a recent interview, one of the show’s stars dropped a tantalizing hint: Buck might be stepping into a leadership role. While nothing was officially confirmed, the actor mentioned Buck’s “growth, maturity, and potential future leadership.” Naturally, fans are speculating: could this mean he’s being lined up to replace Bobby Nash?
Reading Between the Lines
The actor’s exact words were, “Buck has come a long way. He’s proven himself. I wouldn’t be surprised if he had more responsibility coming his way.” Sounds like more than just a compliment, right?
Buck’s Journey – From Hot-Headed Rookie to Heroic Leader
Season 1 Buck – The Wild Card
Let’s rewind. Buck in Season 1? Total wildcard. He was impulsive, cocky, and constantly clashing with authority. Leadership material? Not even close.
The Evolution of Evan Buckley
Flash-forward to recent seasons, and Buck is nearly unrecognizable. He’s been through it all—loss, trauma, therapy, even death (literally, in Season 6). All of it shaped him into a dependable, emotionally intelligent firefighter who can lead under pressure.
Leadership Traits We’ve Already Seen
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Calm under pressure
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Empathy toward victims and teammates
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Quick decision-making
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Strong moral compass
Why Bobby Might Be Ready to Step Down
Bobby’s Legacy
Bobby Nash is iconic. As the 118’s captain, he’s been the steady hand in chaos. But he’s also faced an unimaginable amount of personal trauma—especially with Athena and their family in recent seasons.
Retirement on the Horizon?
There have been subtle hints about Bobby possibly retiring or stepping back. He’s dealt with heart issues, stress, and a desire for peace. The groundwork is there for a possible handoff.
Could Buck Really Take Over? Let’s Talk Logistics
Is He Technically Qualified?
Great question. While Buck is respected and experienced, is he qualified by the book? Probably not… yet. But 9-1-1 has never shied away from unconventional promotions (remember Chim’s rise?).
Training & Certification
Buck would likely need to complete additional leadership training or certifications to become captain. Could Season 9 show him going through that journey?
Cast Reactions – Are They Hinting at the Change?
Oliver Stark Speaks Out
Oliver Stark (Buck) has previously mentioned his character’s development and hinted at a “new direction” in upcoming episodes. He’s clearly aware of fan speculation—and he’s not denying it.
What Other Cast Members Have Said
Angela Bassett and Peter Krause have been tight-lipped, but recent cast interviews suggest “a shift in team dynamics” is coming in Season 9.
How Fans Are Reacting Online
Social Media Buzz
Twitter (or X) exploded after the interview aired. Hashtags like #CaptainBuck and #BuckFor118 trended for hours.
Fan Opinions Are Split
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Some say YES: “He’s earned it. Give Buck the promotion!”
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Others say WAIT: “He’s not ready. Let Bobby train him first.”
The divide is real—and that makes for great TV.
The Psychological Growth of Buck
Therapy Changed Everything
Remember Buck’s therapy arc? It was one of the show’s most humanizing storylines. He went from avoiding emotions to fully confronting them. That kind of emotional growth is vital in a leader.
Confidence vs. Ego
Early Buck acted out of ego. Current Buck? He acts with purpose. Huge difference.
Season 9 Predictions – What Could Happen Next?
Scenario 1: Bobby Steps Down Voluntarily
He mentors Buck and hands him the reins gradually. This would be a powerful passing of the torch.
Scenario 2: Emergency Forces a Promotion
What if a crisis puts Buck in charge temporarily—and he nails it? Classic 9-1-1 twist.
Scenario 3: Buck Turns It Down
Plot twist: Buck says no. Maybe he realizes he’s not ready yet, setting up a future arc.
The Importance of Leadership in 9-1-1
More Than Just a Title
Being captain isn’t just about rank—it’s about heart, grit, and sacrifice. Buck’s journey shows he may just have what it takes.
A New Era for the 118
Whether Buck becomes captain or not, Season 9 is shaping up to be a turning point for the firehouse.
Final Thoughts – Is Buck Really Ready?
Let’s be honest. Buck isn’t perfect. But he’s got the fire, the fight, and the emotional growth that a good leader needs. And if the 9-1-1 writers are setting this up the way it seems? We might just be looking at Captain Buck by the end of Season 9.
