9-1-1 Season 9: Oliver Stark open to Buck-Eddie romance — Is a 'Buddie' storyline in the works?

As ABC’s hit procedural drama 9-1-1 nears the conclusion of its emotionally charged eighth season, lead actor Oliver Stark has weighed in on the growing fan speculation surrounding a potential romantic arc between his character Buck and Ryan Guzman’s Eddie, popularly dubbed "Buddie" by the show’s dedicated viewers.

Stark, in a recent interview, signaled openness to the idea, stating he is “down for wherever” the writers decide to take the storyline.

Emotional Turbulence Sets the Stage for a New Direction

The penultimate episode of Season 8 left audiences grappling with the tragic demise of Captain Bobby Nash (played by Peter Krause), an event that sent shockwaves through the characters and fanbase alike.


In its aftermath, Buck and Eddie found themselves entangled in a tense exchange regarding Eddie’s potential move to El Paso—a conversation layered with emotional vulnerability and long-simmering subtext.

Their complex dynamic, often lauded for its intensity and chemistry, reignited conversations among fans about the possibility of the relationship evolving beyond friendship.

While the show has so far focused on the duo’s deep camaraderie, many in the audience have hoped for romantic undertones to become canon.

Stark Addresses the "Buddie" Speculation

Speaking to NBC New York’s Sarah Gore, Stark addressed the speculation head-on, acknowledging the fervent following surrounding the Buck and Eddie relationship.

"Fans have certainly become very invested in that relationship, and there’s quite an intense following to it," he said. "I don’t know. I’m down for wherever — Listen, I just work here. I’ll go with it regardless."

Stark emphasized that the show strives to tell “heightened but still authentic stories” about first responders and that if a romantic plotline between Buck and Eddie fits within that framework, he is open to exploring it.

Focus Shifted After Shocking Loss

Earlier in the season, subtle narrative threads seemed to be laying groundwork for a deeper exploration of Buck and Eddie’s bond.

However, the storyline pivoted dramatically after Bobby’s heroic death, shifting attention away from personal relationships to the broader trauma affecting the 118 firehouse team.

In the wake of this loss, character development took a more somber turn, pausing speculation around a potential Buck and Eddie romance.

With the 9-1-1 Season 8 finale scheduled to air next week, it remains uncertain when — or if — the show will revisit this emotional subplot.

The future of the firehouse leadership, following Bobby's death, also looms large as another narrative thread demanding resolution.

A Wait Until Season 9 for Answers

Given the timing, fans may have to wait until Season 9 to see whether the writers delve further into the "Buddie" dynamic or pursue alternative storylines.

The series’ showrunner Tim Minear has remained tight-lipped about specific character arcs for the next season, leaving audiences to speculate on the fate of both the firehouse and its central relationships.

For now, 9-1-1 continues to stream on Hulu, with the upcoming finale poised to leave viewers with more questions than answers.

FAQs

Is 9-1-1 coming back for season 9?

In April 2025, the series was renewed for a ninth season.

Is Buck in love with Eddie?

“In love with Eddie?” Buck echoes. Maddie replies, “It wouldn’t be so crazy.” But Buck quickly dismisses the idea, saying, “As much as everyone wants me to be hopelessly hung up on my straight best friend, that’s just not what it is.”