Buck’s (Oliver Stark) love life still remains a puzzle in 9-1-1 compared to his fellow first responders, who have figured out their personal lives. Well, that’s also apart from his best pal Eddie (Ryan Guzman). Ahead of the procedural’s Season 8 finale, Stark and co-star Aisha Hinds, who portrays Hen, voiced their opinions about Buck’s romance, particularly the influence of his past relationships and what lies ahead in his romantic future. Speaking with Swooon, Hinds had only good things to say about Buck’s first love interest in 9-1-1, Abby (Connie Britton).
She described the duo’s relationship as one that “kind of grounded” Buck, who initially was all over the place until Abby, who brought out “some of the best parts of him.” The actress moved on to Buck and Tommy’s (Lou Ferrigno Jr.) romance, which ended in Season 8 and was “kind of a beautiful opportunity for Buck to explore all the facets of himself.” Hinds, however, noted, “I don’t think that relationship is the landing place for that exploration.”
Later on in the interview, the Invasion star discussed the future of Buck’s love life on 9-1-1, stating what the beloved character should be looking for in a potential love interest. She spoke of someone who has the beneficial qualities of both Abby and Tommy, saying:
“I would actually love to see Buck grounded in a relationship and experiencing it in the fullest way, someone who would probably extract that best side of him like an Abby, but with the freedom that he now has to be the fullest version of himself with a Tommy.”
When it comes to emotional rollercoasters, Fox’s 9-1-1 doesn’t hold back — and Evan “Buck” Buckley is often at the center of the storm. But recently, actor Oliver Stark gave fans something to really talk about: a cryptic yet powerful teaser about Buck’s journey toward love — and becoming his most authentic self. So what exactly does the future hold for Buck? Let’s dive into it.
Buck’s Journey from Chaos to Clarity
The Evolution of Evan Buckley
Buck started off as the charming, reckless, adrenaline-chasing firefighter. But over time, we’ve seen a deeper, more vulnerable side. From family trauma to near-death experiences, Buck has evolved — and it’s been beautifully messy.
A Timeline of Trials and Triumphs
From Abby to Taylor, Buck’s love life has been anything but simple. Each relationship revealed new layers of his identity, but also highlighted his emotional blocks.
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Abby (Season 1): A first love that taught Buck the power — and pain — of vulnerability.
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Ali & Taylor: Flashes of chemistry, but lacking real emotional foundation.
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Self-love: The ongoing theme through all these trials? Buck learning to love himself first.
What “Most Authentic” Really Means
Oliver Stark’s Insightful Hint
In a recent interview, Oliver Stark shared that Buck is finally becoming “the most authentic version of himself.” That statement alone sent fan theories into overdrive. What does authenticity look like for Buck?
More Than Just a Love Interest
Authenticity means alignment with inner truth — not just romantic drama. Buck’s next relationship may not be flashy or chaotic. It might be soft, secure, and soul-deep.
Could a Queer Romance Be on the Horizon?
The Fan-Fueled Speculation
A large section of the fanbase has long shipped Buck with fellow firefighter Eddie Diaz. Their chemistry, emotional intimacy, and deep bond have sparked endless speculation. Could we see a queer storyline unfold?
Buck and Eddie — Just “Best Friends” or More?
Let’s be real — most people don’t stare longingly at their platonic friends that way. Whether it’s just deep friendship or the beginning of something more, fans are watching every move.
Buck’s Past Relationships — Lessons Learned
Abby: Love That Left Too Soon
Abby was Buck’s first big love. Their breakup taught him the pain of emotional abandonment — and the importance of closure.
Taylor: A Mirror, Not a Match
With Taylor, Buck felt seen, but not fully understood. The relationship felt transactional at times — like two people using each other to feel less alone.
Why It All Matters Now
All of this emotional history is context — setting the stage for a relationship rooted in emotional safety, trust, and honesty.
Buck’s Internal Journey Is the Real Love Story
Healing the Inner Child
Buck has been grappling with deep-seated issues from childhood — neglect, identity confusion, and a constant need to prove his worth.
Therapy, Growth, and Self-Acceptance
This season has shown Buck diving into self-reflection, even attending therapy. Healing isn’t always pretty, but it’s necessary.
What to Expect in Upcoming Episodes
A Shift Toward Emotional Depth
Writers seem to be pulling Buck away from flashy romance and toward something richer. We might finally get to see Buck in a healthy, stable, emotionally mature relationship.
Room for a Slow-Burn Romance
Fans are hoping for a slow burn — the kind of love story that grows with trust, not just tension.
The Power of Found Family
Buck, Eddie, and Christopher
Buck’s bond with Eddie’s son Christopher has shown a side of him that’s gentle, patient, and fiercely loyal. That’s not nothing.
What This Dynamic Could Mean
Whether romantic or platonic, this trio functions like a family. And for a man like Buck, found family is everything.
Behind the Scenes: Oliver Stark Gets Real
Why His Words Matter
When actors start using words like “authentic” and “true self,” they usually know something the rest of us don’t. Stark’s comment wasn’t offhanded — it was intentional.
Actor and Character: The Connection
Oliver Stark has spoken openly about masculinity, vulnerability, and emotional growth — themes that mirror Buck’s own arc.
A Potential Queer Love Story Would Be Groundbreaking
Representation That Resonates
If Buck’s future involves a same-sex romance, it could redefine LGBTQ+ representation on network TV.
Authenticity Over Shock Value
This isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about truthful storytelling and honoring a character’s emotional journey.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Twitter’s Theory Storm
After Stark’s interview, fan theories lit up like wildfire. From Reddit threads to Twitter storms, Buck’s love life is the hot topic.
Why Viewers Care So Much
Because we’ve seen Buck break, rebuild, and grow. We’re invested not just in who he ends up with, but how he gets there
Why Buck Deserves a Healthy Love Story
Enough With the Heartbreak
Let’s be honest — Buck’s been through it. He deserves more than another short-term fling or unresolved tension.
Time for Something Real
Whether it’s Eddie, someone new, or even more time alone, Buck needs a love story that matches his emotional evolution.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Buck
Buck’s journey has been raw, relatable, and riddled with heartache — but he’s finally stepping into the truest version of himself. Whether that means falling in love with someone unexpected or embracing a quiet confidence in who he is, one thing’s for sure: we’re here for it. Because love — real, messy, honest love — begins with self-acceptance. And Buck’s just getting started.
