Oliver Stark Reveals the Truth Behind Buck’s Role in Season 9 of ‘9-1-1’

9-1-1 Buck star Oliver Stark has given his view on why Buck will not be a replacement for Bobby moving forward. Stark has played maverick firefighter Evan “Buck” Buckley on the hit ABC procedural since 2018, and his character has become a firm favorite on the show. Following the tragic 9-1-1 death of fire station captain Bobby, Buck’s mentor and father figure, there is a power vacuum that will need to be filled, and Buck would naturally be a contender for the position. And now Stark has given his views on whether Buck would be the right man for the job.

Per TV Insider, Stark confirmed that Buck’s natural personality would feel at odds with the responsibility that comes with being captain. He discusses how Buck would struggle as captain not being the one who gets to do all the “cool” stuff. Stark confirms that sending Buck down the route of becoming captain would present plenty of difficulties. Check out Stark’s comments below:

“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.”

The Captain’s Chair Isn’t Buck’s—Yet

When Bobby Nash stepped back due to health complications in Season 8 of 9-1-1, fans instantly began eyeing Evan “Buck” Buckley as his potential successor. After all, Buck’s evolution from reckless rookie to dependable first responder has been one of the show’s most compelling arcs.

But now, with Season 9 just around the corner, Oliver Stark, the actor behind Buck, has dropped a bombshell: Buck won’t be replacing Bobby as the 118’s new captain. And his reasons? They’re layered, logical, and downright fascinating. Let’s unpack everything Stark had to say—and why it makes perfect sense.

Buck’s Journey So Far — From Chaos to Control

Buck’s Early Days: The Wild Card of 118

Remember Season 1 Buck? The guy was all adrenaline, impulse, and shirtless stunts. Back then, the idea of him leading the team would’ve been laughable. He was bold but unpredictable.

Growth Through Trauma

From the tsunami that nearly killed him to losing his brother Daniel, Buck’s pain has shaped his maturity. But trauma doesn’t automatically equal leadership, and that’s part of Stark’s point.

Becoming the Heart of the Team

Today, Buck’s the emotional anchor of the 118. He’s loyal, brave, and dependable. But is he ready to lead?

Oliver Stark’s Perspective — Why Buck Isn’t Ready for Captaincy

“Buck Doesn’t Want to Be Captain”

In a recent interview, Stark made it clear: Buck has no ambition to be in charge. “It’s not in his DNA,” he explained. Buck thrives as part of the action, not above it.

Respecting the Chain of Command

Stark emphasized Buck’s respect for Bobby and the structure of the 118. For Buck, leadership isn’t about rank—it’s about support.

Leadership Requires More Than Heroics

Sure, Buck’s saved countless lives. But leadership means strategy, paperwork, accountability. Stark believes Buck’s not craving that responsibility.

Why It Matters That Buck Isn’t Taking Over

A Realistic Portrayal of Career Growth

TV often rushes character development. But 9-1-1 is taking a more realistic route. Just because Buck has been around doesn’t mean he’s next in line.

There’s Power in Not Being the Leader

Buck can still be a fan-favorite and show growth without a promotion. Sometimes, not getting the role you expected shows real maturity.

Avoiding the “Perfect Hero” Trap

Oliver Stark subtly points out that giving Buck everything—emotional arc and career boost—would feel too convenient. And fans deserve better.

What This Means for Bobby’s Legacy

Bobby’s Shoes Are Hard to Fill

Captain Nash has been the soul of the 118. Calm, wise, selfless. Even Buck would admit he’s not there yet.

Respecting Bobby by Not Rushing Replacements

Choosing not to hand the reins to Buck immediately honors Bobby’s legacy. It says, “This isn’t a role you inherit—you earn it.”

Bobby Isn’t Gone for Good

Let’s not forget: Bobby might still return. Keeping Buck in his lane allows the door to remain open for Bobby’s comeback.

So… Who Will Lead the 118 in Season 9?

The Team Dynamic Is Shifting

Expect to see more of Chimney, Hen, and even Eddie stepping up. The absence of a clear leader might make the team stronger.

Buck’s Role May Still Expand

Just because Buck won’t be captain doesn’t mean he won’t grow. Stark hints at “new responsibilities”—just not the top job.

A Rotating Leadership Structure?

Stark also hinted that the team might operate as a unit, sharing duties and decision-making. It could shake things up in the best way.

Oliver Stark’s Take Is a Masterclass in Character Integrity

Not Every Hero Needs a Promotion

Stark wants Buck to stay grounded. That’s rare in TV—where bigger roles often equal better arcs. But Buck’s strength lies in being part of the team.

Staying True to Buck’s Nature

Stark isn’t just following the script—he’s defending Buck’s character. That shows care, depth, and dedication.

Letting the Audience Invest Naturally

By not rushing a promotion, the writers and Stark give us time to feel the stakes. That’s good storytelling.

Fan Reactions — Mixed, but Mostly Supportive

Some Fans Wanted “Captain Buck”

No surprise—Twitter lit up with “Buck for Captain” after Bobby’s scare. But once Stark spoke, many fans agreed: it’s not Buck’s time.

Others Praise the Realism

Fans love that the show isn’t giving in to clichés. This kind of grounded writing is what sets 9-1-1 apart.

Buck Still Has Time

At just 9 seasons in (with hopefully more to go), Buck’s journey is far from over.

What to Expect from Buck in Season 9

More Emotional Depth

Stark teased a “more introspective” Buck. Expect self-reflection, relationship growth, and maybe even mentoring newer firefighters.

Possible Romantic Developments

With Bobby sidelined, Buck’s personal life might finally get more focus. Could a new love interest be on the way?

Proving Himself Without the Title

Buck’s challenge this season? Showing he can lead without the badge.

Final Thoughts — Why This Decision Is Actually Genius

Oliver Stark’s comments aren’t a letdown—they’re a setup for something greater. By refusing to crown Buck too soon, 9-1-1 is playing the long game. And when Buck does eventually step up, it’ll be earned—and oh-so-satisfying.

Conclusion: The Leadership Buck Deserves Is Still Coming

To put it plainly, Buck doesn’t need a promotion to be powerful. Oliver Stark’s insight reminds us that growth isn’t always flashy. Sometimes, the best leaders are the ones who learn to follow first.

So, while Buck might not be sitting in Bobby’s chair this season, he’s exactly where he needs to be—learning, evolving, and holding down the heart of the 118.

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