With Owen making the move back to New York in the 9-1-1: Lone Star series finale, it would seem like he was being set up for a potential New York spinoff instead of an appearance in the Nashville series. It would make more sense for the new show to actually use those characters who are still in residence in Texas instead.
Geographically, it seems unlikely that characters from 9-1-1, which is all the way on the West Coast, would be popping up in Tennessee, even though the flagship series is still on the air. Of course, there is always the potential for characters to be taking a vacation to Nashville or have a more personal connection to one of the new characters we do not know about just yet.
It just would not be quite as long of a trip for one of those characters if they were coming from Texas instead of California or New York. It’s not quite as much of a reach to believe a Lone Star character could be traveling through Nashville.
The “9-1-1” franchise is on fire—literally and figuratively. After the network shake-up and major fanfare, “9-1-1: Nashville” is the latest addition to the adrenaline-pumping universe. But here’s the twist: while many are eager to see Rob Lowe’s iconic Owen Strand make an appearance, some fans and insiders argue that other “Lone Star” characters deserve to step into the Nashville spotlight first. Let’s unpack why.
The Expanding 9-1-1 Universe
From LA to Austin—And Now Nashville
The original “9-1-1” introduced us to first responders in Los Angeles. Then came “9-1-1: Lone Star,” setting up shop in the heart of Texas with a fresh yet emotionally rich ensemble. Now, with “9-1-1: Nashville” on the rise, there’s room to deepen the universe—and create stronger connections between the shows.
Why Crossovers Matter in TV Universes
Crossovers aren’t just fan service—they’re smart storytelling. Think Marvel, Chicago Fire, or Grey’s Anatomy. They build emotional investment and help grow viewership across spin-offs. The 9-1-1 universe is ripe for these moments.
The Owen Dilemma
Owen Strand—A Dominant Force Already
Let’s be honest. Rob Lowe’s Owen Strand is already a towering figure in “Lone Star.” He’s charming, bold, and has had some of the most intense storylines. But that’s just it—he’s had his time. Why not give others a shot?
Too Much Owen? Maybe Just a Bit
While Owen’s leadership is magnetic, it sometimes overshadows other strong characters. A pre-Owen crossover in Nashville could finally balance the scales.
Characters Who Deserve Nashville First
T.K. Strand—The Heartbeat of Lone Star
Let’s start with Owen’s son, T.K. Strand. From dealing with addiction to becoming a compassionate paramedic, T.K. has gone through a genuine transformation. His emotionally driven character could bring a human edge to the high-stakes scenes in Nashville.
Why T.K. Works in Nashville
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He’s relatable and raw.
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Fans have followed his growth.
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His relationship with Carlos adds depth and representation.
Grace Ryder—The Calm Within the Storm
Grace is the voice in your ear when chaos erupts. She’s not just a 911 operator—she’s a force of wisdom, composure, and power. Her presence in Nashville could ground the show emotionally.
Grace’s Role in Expanding the Franchise
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Introduces a powerful Black female character.
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Offers a civilian-side perspective.
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Could connect Nashville’s call center with Austin’s.
Judd Ryder—The Veteran We Need
Every firehouse has its heart, and in Austin, it’s Judd Ryder. His grit, loyalty, and humor make him a fan favorite. Pair him with Nashville’s team? That’s TV gold.
Emotional mentorship for younger firefighters.
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A gritty Southern vibe that mirrors Tennessee roots.
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Natural chemistry with new characters.
Paul Strickland—The Unsung Hero
Trans actor Brian Michael Smith’s Paul Strickland has shattered stereotypes and brought incredible layers to Lone Star. His inclusion in a crossover would be more than representation—it’d be evolution.
What Paul Brings to the Table
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Physical action mixed with emotional storytelling.
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Rare trans representation in prime-time TV.
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An underdog story that could shine in a new environment.
Building Organic Storylines
Let Nashville Breathe First
Introducing Nashville with new faces before star-studded cameos allows it to develop its own voice. Think of it as seasoning a dish—too much star power too soon can overpower the recipe.
Lone Star Characters Could Bridge the Gap
Characters like Grace, T.K., and Paul could ease fans into the Nashville rhythm. Then when Owen arrives? It hits harder. It means more.
Fan Demand Speaks Volumes
What the Fandom Is Saying
Scroll through Reddit or Twitter, and you’ll find countless posts like:
“Grace deserves more screentime.”
“Let T.K. lead for once!”
“Owen is great—but he doesn’t need to be first.”
The people have spoken. They want variety. They want growth. They want depth.
Strategic TV Moves for Maximum Impact
Spread the Star Power
Dropping Owen in too early risks Nashville becoming “Lone Star: Part Two.” Let other characters bring attention to the show first—it’s a smarter investment for long-term viewership.
It Keeps the Audience Guessing
Surprise cameos have weight when they’re unexpected. If fans know Owen is coming, they’ll wait for him and ignore the rest. Give them something fresh first.
