In the midst of all the action expected for the second half of 9-1-1 season 8, the series needs to find room for a major, emotional scene between Buck and Bobby. The pair are key components of the 9-1-1 season 8 cast, but the two characters rarely get serious scenes together despite their important bond. With Buck’s character already experiencing massive heartbreak in the first eight episodes, he’s in need of a steady support system– and waiting until 9-1-1 season 9 to reunite Buck and Bobby might be too late.
9-1-1 season 8 already hasn’t been kind to Buck, from developing rare boils on his face in episode 5 (“Masks”) to being dumped by his boyfriend in episode 6 (“Confessions”). While fans of the ABC procedural are anxiously awaiting 9-1-1 season 8’s episode 9, there’s no telling how much harder Buck’s storyline will get before it gets better. The key to him healing from his current wounds is reintroducing Bobby as his go-to confidant both on and off the clock.
9-1-1 Season 8 has delivered some intense, heart-wrenching moments, but one glaring omission stands out—the absence of a crucial team-up that could have significantly contributed to Evan “Buck” Buckley’s healing process. Buck, one of the most beloved characters in the show, has faced countless emotional and physical challenges, and this season had the perfect opportunity to bring in the right character dynamic to aid his recovery. So, what team-up did the show miss, and why is it the key to Buck’s healing? Let’s dive deep into this missed opportunity.
Who Is Buck, and Why Does He Need Healing?
Buck’s Journey So Far
Evan “Buck” Buckley started as the reckless, adrenaline-seeking firefighter who has gradually evolved into one of the most emotionally complex characters in 9-1-1. Over the years, he has faced numerous struggles, from near-death experiences to deeply rooted family trauma.
The Impact of Trauma on Buck
- Surviving the tsunami and other life-threatening calls
- The discovery of his parents’ lies about his birth
- His struggles with self-worth and relationships
- Losing Chimney and Maddie’s trust at one point
All of these events have left Buck emotionally wounded. While Season 8 attempts to address some of these issues, it overlooked the most effective way to help him heal—a key team-up.
The Overlooked Team-Up That Could Have Changed Everything
Who Could Have Helped Buck Most?
The answer is Eddie Diaz.
Buck and Eddie share a bond that goes beyond being co-workers. They have been through thick and thin, but Season 8 failed to capitalize on their emotional connection. Eddie, having experienced his own loss and trauma, is the perfect person to guide Buck through his struggles.
Why Eddie Was the Missing Piece
- Shared Trauma: Eddie lost his wife, faced PTSD, and struggled with single parenthood. He understands pain and healing.
- Emotional Anchor: Buck has always been there for Eddie’s son, Christopher, proving their deep bond.
- Unspoken Brotherhood: Their friendship isn’t just about work—it’s about saving each other in ways that go beyond fire rescues.
How 9-1-1 Season 8 Could Have Handled This Team-Up
1. Giving Buck and Eddie More Screen Time Together
Rather than focusing solely on individual arcs, Season 8 could have emphasized their healing journey together. They both understand loss, trauma, and survival, making their bond even more significant.
2. Exploring Vulnerability in Male Friendships
TV shows often avoid deep emotional connections between male characters unless it involves romance. However, Buck and Eddie’s friendship is proof that strong, vulnerable male friendships should be explored more.
3. Bringing Christopher into the Healing Process
Christopher has always been a symbol of hope in Buck’s life. The show could have incorporated more moments where Buck finds comfort in his relationship with Eddie’s son, reinforcing his purpose beyond firefighting.
What Season 9 Can Do to Fix This Oversight
1. More One-on-One Scenes Between Buck and Eddie
Their dynamic is too valuable to be ignored. Season 9 should focus on their interactions, emphasizing emotional growth and healing.
2. A Storyline That Forces Them to Confront Their Pasts
Perhaps a situation where Eddie needs Buck’s help with Christopher or Buck faces another emotional setback, forcing Eddie to step in.
3. A Deeper Exploration of Buck’s Identity Crisis
Buck has always struggled with self-worth. Eddie, who has faced similar doubts, is the perfect character to help him navigate this.
Conclusion
9-1-1 Season 8 had the perfect chance to deepen Buck’s character development through a meaningful team-up with Eddie Diaz. Unfortunately, this opportunity was overlooked. However, there is still hope for Season 9 to correct this mistake. Fans love Buck and Eddie’s friendship, and the show would benefit greatly by giving them the attention they deserve. Healing doesn’t happen in isolation, and Buck’s journey would be far more impactful with Eddie by his side.
