Few prime-time shows are as interesting as 9-1-1. The former Fox drama truly has something for everyone. There’s action, romance, and suspense. Its diverse cast is filled with lovable personalities, and even the darkest moments are tinged with a sense of brightness. The beloved 118 quickly gained a following, and its fanbase has only expanded since its 2018 debut. Unfortunately, many fans often skip the first season. It is, in all honesty, a somewhat understandable choice.
For most shows, that first season is little more than a test phase. It’s an awkward adolescent slog, wherein the show tries its best to find its footing and establish its formula. It’s an essential time for many procedurals, but rarely a smash hit. Skipping 9-1-1’s inaugural season, however, is a big mistake — and it’s not for some sort of large-scale, plot-related payoff, either. 9-1-1’s debut is, simply, a gem of prime-time television. It’s more than just an awkward serial fledgling. While it sometimes feels like a completely different show, this initial batch of episodes is jam-packed with all the things that make the show great.
If you’re a die-hard fan of 9-1-1, you probably have your favorite moments—maybe the tsunami chaos of Season 3 or the heart-pounding rescues from Season 6. But let’s talk about the season everyone keeps sleeping on. That’s right—Season 4. It’s time to set the record straight because this season brought depth, drama, and development like no other. So, grab your gear and let’s dive into the underrated season of 9-1-1 that truly deserves a second look.
The Season That Slipped Through the Cracks
Why Season 4 Deserves a Rewatch
Ask yourself—why do we love 9-1-1? For the action? The wild rescues? The emotional backstories? Season 4 had all of that and then some. Yet, it flew under the radar. Maybe it was the pandemic timing, maybe it was overshadowed by flashier seasons—but Season 4 quietly built some of the show’s most meaningful arcs.
A Season Aired During Chaos
2021 wasn’t exactly a normal year. With COVID-19 affecting production and viewers distracted by real-world emergencies, Season 4 didn’t get the buzz it deserved. But that doesn’t mean it lacked quality.
Character Development Was Off the Charts
Athena’s Comeback Arc
After her trauma in Season 3, Athena’s return in Season 4 was powerful, raw, and full of emotion. She didn’t just bounce back—she fought for it. That resilience? Iconic.
Buck’s Emotional Growth
Buck has always been a fan favorite, but Season 4 gave him real emotional maturity. From confronting his childhood to stepping up as a big brother, we saw a more complex, vulnerable side.
Maddie and Chimney’s Journey
Let’s not forget the emotional rollercoaster that was Maddie’s pregnancy and postpartum journey. Rarely do shows handle mental health with this kind of care, and it hit home for many fans.
Underrated Emergencies That Packed a Punch
The Dam Disaster
The dam breaking in Episode 2? Edge-of-your-seat stuff. It may not have had the scale of the tsunami, but it delivered intensity and showcased the team’s raw heroism.
The Airplane Emergency
That mid-air emergency episode had everything—drama, suspense, and a whole lot of heart. It reminded us just how skilled and brave these first responders really are.
Smaller Calls, Bigger Impact
Season 4 also leaned into the smaller, emotional rescues—from domestic disputes to elderly care—highlighting that not all heroes wear capes. Sometimes they just show up.
Real-World Issues, Real Impact
Addressing Mental Health
Maddie’s postpartum depression storyline was groundbreaking. It was honest, raw, and relatable—a bold move that paid off emotionally and helped destigmatize a real issue.
Navigating the Pandemic
Without making it all about COVID, 9-1-1 subtly included the tension and burnout felt by first responders during a global crisis. It felt relevant without being overwhelming.
The Writing Was Sharper Than Ever
Subtle Storytelling
Season 4 didn’t rely on flashy tricks. It told its stories with quiet intensity, letting character growth take center stage. The writing was more introspective and layered than fans might remember.
Foreshadowing Future Seasons
Eagle-eyed fans will notice Season 4 planted seeds for future plots—especially Buck’s journey and Maddie’s mental health. It was laying the groundwork in a smart, subtle way.
Top-Notch Direction and Cinematography
Visual Storytelling
From the flashbacks to the way tension built visually during rescue scenes, Season 4 used cinematic techniques to tell deeper stories. It didn’t need explosions—it used emotion.
Flashbacks Done Right
Instead of lazy exposition, Season 4 gave us flashbacks with purpose—filling in character backstories in a way that made us care more deeply.
The Season That Rewarded Long-Time Viewers
Easter Eggs and Callbacks
Season 4 was rich with nods to past events. Whether it was Buck reflecting on Abby or Chimney growing into fatherhood, long-time fans were rewarded with continuity and growth.
Family Themes at the Forefront
What ties this whole show together? Family. And Season 4 doubled down on that theme—from birth to recovery, from healing to reconnection—it was all about sticking together.
Why Critics and Fans Missed the Mark
The Timing Wasn’t Right
Season 4 aired at a time when viewers were overwhelmed with real-world stress. It didn’t land as hard because people weren’t emotionally available to absorb it.
Overlooked Due to Less “Wow” Moments
While other seasons had tsunamis, train wrecks, and bombs, Season 4 focused more on emotional depth. That’s not flashy—but it’s powerful.
A Season That Built Stronger Bonds
Team Dynamics Shined
The chemistry among the team was next level. Bobby’s leadership, Hen’s wisdom, and Eddie’s loyalty made every scene feel like family.
Relationship Growth
From Maddie and Chimney’s rocky path to Athena and Bobby’s quiet strength, relationships were at the heart of Season 4.
So, Why Isn’t Season 4 More Loved?
Let’s be honest—Season 4 deserves way more love. It was real, emotional, and character-driven. If you’re rewatching 9-1-1, don’t skip it. In fact, make sure you give it the spotlight it missed.
Conclusion: It’s Time to Give Season 4 Its Flowers
Season 4 of 9-1-1 might not have had the massive set pieces or jaw-dropping stunts, but what it did have was heart, soul, and storytelling finesse. It dared to be different. It slowed down when the world was moving too fast and gave us a chance to breathe, connect, and reflect. So next time you’re queuing up episodes, don’t skip the “quiet” one. Because Season 4 wasn’t quiet—it was quietly brilliant.
