After watching his community burn, Chris O’Donnell says his respect for first responders reached a new level. That’s why portraying firefighter Don Hart on 9-1-1: Nashville felt especially meaningful.
Wildfires destroyed much of the Pacific Palisades earlier this year, sparing only a small number of homes—including O’Donnell’s. “We’re beyond grateful,” he says. “There’s nothing to complain about when people are out there protecting all of us.”
Training with real firefighters for the series left a lasting impression. From the heavy gear to the technical expertise, O’Donnell compares them to medical professionals operating under extreme conditions.
Now, even everyday moments feel different. “Every time I see a fire station, I’m curious,” he says. “I think about what goes on inside and the people ready to respond at any moment.”