The 118 is in need of a new Captain in 911 season 9, and it’s pretty clear that Chimney is sure to be the one to step up into that role. However, there’s another member of the 118 who has wanted to be Captain in the past. It’s all about Buck. We all know that Buck isn’t quite ready to be Captain just yet. While he has done great at stepping up to support people where he can, he just doesn’t quite have the experience or the maturity to take on that role.
That’s not the biggest reason for Oliver Stark to think that Buck isn’t ready to be Captain yet, though. It’s all to do with the tasks of the job, according to TV Insider. When Buck first came into the series, he had a daredevil way about him. He was ready to jump into hair-raising situations, putting his life on the line to save others. However, he didn’t always do it with thoughts of his own safety, something that Bobby helped him find a balance with.
It’s the love of the job that is likely to stop Buck from becoming Captain just yet. Oliver Stark shares that Buck would need to step back from all the main action in the saves, as the Captain has to stand back and give orders in the majority of situations. Of course, every now and then, we have seen Bobby go into the burning buildings, but he often stood outside, just like some of the other Captains in the series. “I think the thing that he would struggle with the most being captain is not being the one that does the cool stuff, right? As captain, you’re not necessarily the one that’s meant to do the rope rescue or running first to the fire, and I think we’ve seen that that is very much Buck’s nature. So I see some difficulties if he ever went down that route in that sense.”
That’s something Buck wouldn’t be okay doing just yet. He wants to be in the action and do the fun stuff, so it’s not surprising that he’s not looking to be Captain just yet. Eventually, Buck is sure to realize that being Captain is what he wants more than being in the action, and that means he needs to figure out the type of Captain he wants to be. Bobby’s memory is going to influence Buck, as Bobby had such a huge influence on him in the first place.
When fans of 9-1-1 talk about loyalty, emotion, and explosive story arcs, they’re usually talking about Evan “Buck” Buckley. As the show evolves, so do the roles—and now, the idea of Buck stepping into a captain’s boots isn’t just wishful thinking. Oliver Stark, the man behind the fan-favorite firefighter, recently shared some intriguing thoughts about Buck possibly becoming captain—and let’s just say, it’s got the internet buzzing.
Who Is Oliver Stark?
From London to Los Angeles
Oliver Stark, the British-born actor, has become a household name thanks to his role as Buck. But did you know he started with humble roots in North London? From minor indie roles to full-blown primetime stardom, Oliver’s journey has been anything but ordinary.
His Connection With Buck
There’s something raw and real in the way Stark plays Buck. He’s not just reading lines—he is Buck. That emotional bond shows in every episode, especially in the most vulnerable moments.
Buck’s Evolution on 9-1-1
From Rookie to Rescue Hero
Buck started out as the charming hotshot of Station 118, but he’s come a long way since those reckless rookie days. We’ve seen him grow through trauma, heartbreak, and some truly heroic acts.
The Making of a Leader
Buck’s natural instincts, fearless loyalty, and desire to do the right thing have turned him into a quiet leader. Even when he’s not calling the shots, people look to him. That’s leadership in disguise.
Critical Moments That Show Buck’s Growth
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Saving lives during high-stakes emergencies
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Supporting his team through their darkest hours
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Learning to own his past and grow from it
What Oliver Stark Really Thinks
“He’s Not There Yet—But He Could Be”
In a recent interview, Oliver Stark opened up about Buck’s potential future. His take? Buck could be captain—but not just yet. Stark says Buck still has some emotional growing to do.
Leadership Is More Than a Title
According to Stark, Buck needs to be ready not just in skill, but in mindset. A captain isn’t just brave—they’re grounded, wise, and able to carry the emotional weight of the entire team.
Stark’s Take on Responsibility
“Buck carries a lot,” Stark said. “But being Captain means knowing when to take a step back, too.” It’s not about action—it’s about strategy, sacrifice, and balance.
What Makes Buck Captain Material?
He’s Grown Through Pain
Let’s not forget—Buck has faced death, family trauma, and personal loss. These experiences have given him depth, empathy, and a strong moral compass.
Team Loyalty Like No Other
Buck isn’t just in it for himself. He fights for the team. He backs up his friends. He’ll jump into a fire if it means someone else walks out alive.
Fans Already See Him as a Leader
Have you been on social media lately? The Buck for Captain posts are everywhere. The fandom believes in him—even if he doesn’t believe in himself just yet.
The Captain Conversation — Who’s In Line?
What About Chimney or Hen?
Yes, other characters like Hen or Chimney are clear contenders. They’re experienced, respected, and level-headed. But Buck brings something different—a fire that can’t be taught.
Should There Even Be a New Captain Yet?
Some fans argue the 118 is best when leadership is shared. Buck doesn’t need a title to lead. But still… wouldn’t it be amazing to see him finally wear that responsibility?
Fan Reactions to Stark’s Comments
Twitter Went Wild
The moment Stark’s comments hit the web, Buck stans were quick to react. From memes to full-on essays, social media exploded with thoughts on Buck’s journey to captainhood.
Reddit’s Take
On platforms like Reddit, the conversation got deeper. Some users debated if Buck’s emotional vulnerability is a strength or a weakness in leadership. The consensus? Growth is strength.
Is the Show Hinting at Buck’s Promotion?
Subtle Clues in Recent Episodes
Some episodes have already teased leadership moments from Buck. Whether it’s taking command in chaos or offering advice, he’s already being groomed for something more.
Writers Love a Long Game
Let’s face it—9-1-1 loves a slow burn. Could Buck’s captain arc already be in motion? All signs point to yes.
What Buck Still Needs to Learn
Emotional Regulation
Let’s be honest—Buck feels everything. While that makes him relatable, it could also cloud judgment in high-stress moments.
Learning to Say No
Part of being a captain is boundaries. Buck is the guy who always says yes. But real leadership means knowing when to step back or let others lead.
Oliver Stark’s Final Word
A Journey, Not a Sprint
In Stark’s own words, Buck isn’t ready “yet”—but the key word is “yet.” That means the potential is there, and fans might just get the payoff they’re hoping for.
Conclusion: Could Buck Be the Next Captain?
There’s no denying it: Buck has come a long way. And according to Oliver Stark, the road to captaincy isn’t closed—it’s just under construction. With a little more growth, a few more hard lessons, and the right timing, Buck might just rise to the top. One thing’s for sure: if and when it happens, fans will be all in.
