Season 9 will continue exploring Buck’s journey. Apart from Bobby’s death, it will also explore other aspects of his life, such as his friendship with Eddie (Ryan Guzman) and his romantic relationships after being dumped by Tommy (Lou Ferrigno Jr.). Eddie’s return to Los Angeles finds Buck trying to find a new place after he moved into Eddie’s place. Buck would want somewhere “nice, [with] natural light, [and a] nice place to cook breakfast. I think more than anything, just something that feels like his. The loft that he was in for a long time was great, and obviously, he let that go,” Stark shared with TV Insider about what his character desires in his next home.
The Big Picture — Why Buck’s Arc in Season 8 Matters More Than Ever
Evan “Buck” Buckley has been the heart and soul of 9-1-1 since Season 1. Whether he’s dangling from a helicopter or diving headfirst into personal chaos, Buck brings passion, unpredictability, and raw emotion to every scene. But now, heading into Season 8, fans are asking: What’s next for Buck?
Will he grow, crack under pressure, or finally find the peace he’s been searching for?
Let’s dive deep into the possibilities.
Buck’s Emotional Rollercoaster — A Recap of Season 7
The Trauma That Still Lingers
Season 7 wasn’t exactly a walk in the park for Buck. After enduring relationship drama, close calls on duty, and a brush with death, Buck’s emotional stability has been hanging by a thread. These aren’t just plot points — they’re layers to a man who’s constantly redefining himself.
The Bond with His Firehouse Family
Buck has leaned heavily on Bobby, Hen, Chimney, and Eddie, forming some of the most compelling relationships in the show. Expect those connections to play a massive role in his Season 8 arc — especially his bond with Eddie, which fans have speculated could evolve into something more… personal.
A Shift in Duty — Could Buck Take on a New Role at the 118?
Leadership on the Horizon
Buck has always been the impulsive one, the daredevil. But there are rumors (and hints) that he might be stepping up into a more leadership-oriented position. Could he be promoted? Maybe even take on more training responsibilities?
The Rookie Whisperer
One interesting angle for Buck’s development? Mentorship. There’s buzz around a new rookie joining the 118, and Buck’s chaotic yet compassionate energy might make him the perfect mentor — or the worst one.
Love and Loss — Buck’s Complicated Romantic History
Past Relationships That Still Haunt Him
From Abby to Taylor to Natalia, Buck’s love life has been messy. Each relationship left scars, and Season 8 might be the season he finally processes it all.
Will Eddie and Buck Explore Something Deeper?
Let’s address the elephant in the fandom — “Buddie”. Their chemistry is undeniable. Season 8 could be the turning point where writers either take the plunge or finally shut that door. Either way, it’ll be emotional.
Mental Health Matters — Is Buck Finally Seeking Help?
Buck’s past therapy sessions scratched the surface, but Season 8 might dig deeper. Fans are hoping the show portrays male mental health with sincerity — something Buck’s character could powerfully deliver.
The Genetic Twist — Will the Donor Story Continue?
Revisiting the Donor Arc
In previous seasons, Buck discovered he was a sperm donor — a revelation that shook him. Season 8 could expand on this, especially if the child reenters the picture.
A Newfound Family?
This storyline could open the door to Buck building relationships outside the 118, possibly even stepping into a guardian or father-figure role.
Buck and Christopher — Father Figure or Best Friend?
The connection between Buck and Eddie’s son, Christopher, is one of the show’s most tender relationships. If Eddie’s storyline goes into darker territory, Buck could be stepping in as a support system — maybe even stepping into a surrogate parent role.
High-Stakes Emergencies Ahead — What Kind of Calls Will Buck Face?
You can’t talk about 9-1-1 without talking about the insane emergency calls.
Teased Disasters in Season 8
Leaks suggest we could see a multi-episode disaster early in the season — possibly a train derailment or a chemical explosion. Buck will likely be front and center, risking everything, as usual.
Is Buck Running Toward Something or Away?
Buck’s character often runs — literally and emotionally. Season 8 could force him to stop and confront what he’s been avoiding.
Facing His Family
Will we see more of Buck’s fractured relationship with his parents? There’s still a lot to unpack there — and fans want closure.
Back to School? Buck’s Potential Career Detour
Could Buck go back to school or training? A storyline involving advanced paramedic training or fire officer certification could add depth and realism to his journey.
Could Buck Be on His Way Out?
Let’s be real: every season brings whispers of a main character leaving. Could Buck be the next?
Oliver Stark’s Future with the Series
There’s been no official announcement that Oliver Stark is leaving, but if the writers want to create a gut-wrenching arc, Buck leaving or dying would be a devastating — and ratings-boosting — move.Buck’s Identity — More to Discover?
A Queer Storyline?
Fans have speculated that Buck might come out as bisexual or queer. While nothing’s confirmed, the character’s emotional depth and evolving self-awareness could support such a revelation — if handled respectfully.
What the Cast and Crew Are Saying
Oliver Stark has remained tight-lipped but hinted at “huge emotional growth” for Buck in upcoming interviews. Showrunner Kristen Reidel teased “a Buck storyline that will surprise and challenge fans.”
Fan Theories You Won’t Believe
From time-traveling dream sequences to secret family members, the 9-1-1 fandom never disappoints with wild theories. Could Buck be thrown into a psychological episode that blends fiction and reality?
Buck’s True North — What He Really Wants
In every crisis, Buck asks: Who am I really?
Season 8 might be his journey to finally find out.
Conclusion: Buck Is About to Break — Or Break Through
As we inch closer to 9-1-1 Season 8, one thing’s clear — Buck’s journey is far from over. He’s a man on the edge of transformation. Whether that means stepping up, stepping out, or breaking down, fans will be there every step of the way, tissues in hand and theories flying.
If you thought you knew Buck… you don’t. Not yet.
