9-1-1will return to ABC for Season 9 this fall, and the historic season will see a significant shift in the show’s Station 126. Following Bobby’s (Peter Krause) death in Season 8, the station and its characters will try to figure out what’s next for them. Series star Oliver Stark told Principle Magazine that he would like to see the show explore how Buck copes with losing his mentor, Bobby Nash, when the season premieres. “We’ll start shooting Season 9 in about a month,” he shared with the publication, revealing that production start is imminent. “I have read nothing yet,” the actor added. Given that scripts are yet to come out, Stark shared the general direction he wishes to see his character’s story take.
“It’s gonna be interesting in the sense that at the end of Season 8, we lost Peter Krause’s character,” he said. ” 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,” Stark added. Asked what he wishes to see for his character, the actor 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.”
When Bobby Nash, played by Peter Krause, died in the Season 8 finale of 9-1-1, fans were left stunned. It wasn’t just the end of a character—it was the collapse of the 118’s beating heart. Bobby wasn’t just the fire captain. He was the glue holding the squad together, the moral compass, and the quiet strength behind every rescue mission.
And now? That glue is gone.
The Actor Speaks Out: “I Want Him To Carry the Banner”
In a recent exclusive interview, a 9-1-1 cast member—age 33 and deeply beloved by the fanbase—spoke up with a statement that sent ripples across the fandom: “I want him to carry the banner.”
No cryptic ambiguity. No hiding behind PR lines. Just a raw, heartfelt sentiment. But who is “him”? And what exactly does “carrying the banner” mean for the firehouse?
Let’s dive in.
Who Said It: Decoding the Cast Member’s Message
The actor behind this powerful quote? Ryan Guzman, who plays Eddie Diaz. At just 33, Guzman’s portrayal of Eddie has evolved from a single dad struggling with trauma to one of the emotional anchors of the show.
His bond with Bobby was more than professional—it was spiritual. And his words suggest he’s ready to step up.
What Does “Carry the Banner” Really Mean?
“Carrying the banner” is more than a symbolic nod. It means leading. It means taking the torch and charging forward in Bobby’s absence. It’s a call to rise, protect, and guide.
Eddie Diaz may very well be stepping into that leadership role, not just as a firefighter, but as the heart of the 118.
Season 9: A Turning Point for the 118
With Bobby gone, everything changes. Here’s what’s on the line in Season 9:
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New Leadership Dynamics
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Emotional Fallout From Bobby’s Death
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Personal Growth for Eddie Diaz
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Shifting Roles for Chimney, Hen, and Buck
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The Future of the Firehouse
Eddie Diaz: The Reluctant Hero Ready to Rise
Eddie has always carried weight on his shoulders. From military trauma to being a single parent to Christopher, he knows responsibility.
But leading the 118? That’s another level.
Fans are already buzzing, and Guzman’s comment adds fuel to the fire. Is this the evolution we’ve been waiting for?
Behind-the-Scenes: Season 9 Teasers & Production Updates
Production for Season 9 is already underway. Writers have hinted at a “grittier, emotionally raw” storyline. The death of Bobby won’t be swept under the rug—it will be the engine that drives the season.
Expect intense character arcs, more team vulnerability, and a spotlight on how grief shapes heroes.
Bobby’s Legacy Lives On
Peter Krause may be off the show, but Bobby Nash isn’t gone. His presence will linger like smoke in a burned-out room. His leadership, values, and mentorship will guide Eddie, Buck, and the rest as they figure out who they are without him.
And Guzman’s quote? That’s more than a soundbite. It’s a vow.
Buck vs. Eddie: Who Should Really Lead the 118?
Some fans argue Buck should take the helm. Others root for Hen. But Eddie’s steady calm, real-world grit, and quiet strength may be what the 118 needs most.
He’s the kind of leader who doesn’t crave the title—he earns it with action.
How Bobby’s Death Will Reshape Every Character
Hen
Already a powerhouse, Hen might finally question her place at the 118. Does she stay, or does she return to medicine full-time?
Chimney
Without Bobby, Chimney could spiral—or rise. The loss may push him into a more grounded, mature phase.
Buck
He’s always looked up to Bobby like a father. Grief may break him—or shape him.
Maddie & Christopher
Secondary characters like Maddie and Eddie’s son Christopher will also feel the loss, possibly pulling tighter into the storylines.
Psychological Toll: Exploring Grief in Uniform
Season 9 won’t shy away from mental health. The emotional aftermath will be a key theme, showing how first responders cope when they lose one of their own.
The Rise of Eddie Diaz: A Full-Circle Moment
From the moment he entered 9-1-1, Eddie was a lone wolf. Now, we may see him transform into a leader with a family, a purpose, and a legacy to uphold.
Fan Theories Are Exploding
Reddit threads and TikTok videos are already packed with theories:
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Will Eddie become Captain?
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Is Bobby truly dead?
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Will the 118 break apart?
One thing is certain: this isn’t just another season. It’s a rebirth.
Ryan Guzman: More Than an Actor
Guzman has always brought authenticity to his role. His off-screen passion for storytelling and representation has earned him fans worldwide.
His quote wasn’t just emotional—it was intentional.
Final Thoughts: Why This Quote Matters So Much
“I want him to carry the banner.” It’s a sentence packed with history, grief, and hope. In one breath, it honors Bobby and sets the stage for what’s next.
Eddie Diaz may not have asked for this role—but maybe that’s what makes him the perfect person to lead.
Conclusion: A New Era for 9-1-1 Begins
As we step into Season 9, we do so without Bobby—but not without purpose. The show is clearly gearing up for its most emotionally charged, character-driven season yet.
Ryan Guzman’s words weren’t just about Eddie—they were a message to the audience: the story isn’t over. The banner will be carried. The fire will burn on.
