Oliver Stark, who plays Buck on ABC’s 9-1-1, expressed his gratitude for the positive reaction to Buck’s storyline, which featured his character kissing a man for the first time in the 100th episode. While many fans were excited to see Buck explore his sexuality, Stark also addressed the haters who were not happy with the storyline. He emphasized that the show is about love and inclusion, featuring queer relationships since the beginning, and encouraged those who are not on board with the new storylines to move on without announcing their departure.
The show also features characters like paramedic Henrietta “Hen” Wilson and her wife Karen Wilson, who have been core characters since the pilot episode in 2018. They are just two of several LGBTQ+ characters with significant storylines on the show. Stark reiterated that if one character exploring his sexuality is a deal breaker for some viewers, they may be missing the entire point of the show. He stands by the representation and inclusivity that the show strives to portray and hopes that all fans will continue to enjoy the storyline as it unfolds.
In the 100th episode, Buck and firefighter Tommy Kinard shared a kiss, fulfilling the hopes of fans who have long wanted to see Buck explore his sexuality. Stark admitted that he had to withdraw from social media because he couldn’t publicly agree with the shippers who were rooting for Buck to embrace his bisexuality. He expressed gratitude to the fans who stuck with the storyline and assured them that the portrayal of Buck’s struggle with his sexual identity will continue throughout season 7.
Stark shared exclusively with Us Weekly that the storyline surrounding Buck’s sexual identity will be a central focus in season 7 of 9-1-1. He described Buck’s struggle as universally relatable, as he navigates the discovery of what was missing in his life. The actor hinted that Buck’s journey will lead to a cathartic and liberating experience as he finally finds a sense of ease and relief in accepting his true self. The ongoing storyline promises to shed light on important themes of self-discovery and acceptance.
9-1-1 season 7 airs on Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, continuing to showcase diverse and inclusive storylines that reflect the complexities of love and relationships. Stark’s portrayal of Buck’s journey towards self-acceptance has been met with both praise and criticism, but the actor remains committed to representing the LGBTQ+ community authentically. As the series continues to explore themes of love and inclusion, it invites viewers to join the characters on their journeys of self-discovery and growth.