L.A.’s emergency service first responders are back in Season 8 of the Fox-turned-ABC hit 9-1-1, facing new emergencies and putting themselves in dangerous situations. Created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear, 9-1-1 debuted in 2018 and focuses on the police officers, paramedics, firefighters, and dispatchers who handle emergencies.
9-1-1 is praised for highlighting the tense and fast-paced situations first responders face as they encounter everyday dangers like fires and crime. While the show primarily focuses on its main characters like Athena Grant (Angela Bassett), Henrietta “Hen” Wilson (Aisha Hinds), Bobby Nash (Peter Krause), and others, the show is also known for its recurring cast members.
One of them is definitely Lou Ferrigno’s son, Louis Ferrigno Jr., who played Tommy Kinard in 9-1-1. He was first introduced to fans in season 2 and was considered one of the coldest characters, especially to the new firefighters.
Louis Ferrigno Jr., as Tommy Kinard, may have been a recurring cast member, but he was one of the most memorable. He started out as an ice-cold person at the 118 station, and many didn’t expect him to change anytime soon.
However, a gas explosion led to a drastic change in Tommy’s personality as he would not have survived if another firefighter named Chimney hadn’t saved him. Despite having less screen time than in 9-1-1, Louis Ferrigno Jr.’s performance was still praised for his character development and positive change in Tommy.
Season 2, Episode 16 marked Tommy’s transition to Station 217, but he made sure to throw a memorable farewell party before taking on his role at the new station. The same season marked the end of Tommy Kinrad’s story as a first responder until he returned in season 7 as an LAFD pilot.
9-1-1 Season 7 surprised fans when Louis Ferrigno Jr. returned as Tommy, who proudly identifies as gay. As the story progressed, it was revealed that Tommy had feelings for Oliver Stark’s Evan “Buck” Buckley. Co-creator Tim Minear created a new storyline for Tommy’s romantic relationship with Buck.
Their relationship began after Tommy showed up for a rescue mission and they gradually discovered a mutual attraction. Speaking about his role in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the actor said, “[Minear] came up with the story, and it was a really, really interesting situation, and I said yes.”
Ferrigno had been offered similar roles before, but he turned them down. However, when it came to the first-responder procedure, he seized the rare opportunity to explore the deep connection between the two characters. “It’s beyond labels,” he said. “It’s beyond names, beyond groups, beyond inclinations. It’s two souls connecting, and that’s what I wanted to achieve.”
While Tommy is certain of his feelings, Buck is still confused and skeptical about their relationship. The two even share a kiss and plan a date, but Buck doesn’t seem to fully understand his feelings.
When talking about Tommy seizing the opportunity to get Buck’s attention, the actor explained Tommy’s constant struggles and difficult life and called him “the coolest guy” who managed to create the perfect moment with Buck.
Lou Ferrigno last appeared in the season 7 episode 6 titled There Goes the Groom, where he accompanied Buck to his sister’s wedding. His character played a key role in Buck’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance of his identity.
