After the devastating loss of Bobby (Peter Krause) in 9-1-1 season 8, the 118 needs a new permanent captain. The 9-1-1 season 8 finale hinted at who would be the one to take over, but it is not Bobbys’ true protégé.
However, Buck is Bobby’s true protégé, and it could have made some sense for Bobby to have wanted him to be the new captain in 9-1-1 season 9. However, we’ve already seen why Buck is not ready for this promotion, hence why it makes sense that he doesn't get it.
Buck Is Bobby's True Protégé In 9-1-1
Bobby Was Like A Father To Buck
When Buck first joined the 118 in the 9-1-1 series premiere, he was wild and unpredictable. He didn’t really have a father figure in his life to look up to, and that led to some terrible decisions both personally and professionally.
Over the seasons, he continued to offer Buck advice, shaping him into an empathetic person and loyal team member.
While Bobby was a leader to Hen and Chimney as well, they didn’t need the father figure that Buck needed. At the same time, they weren’t young enough for Bobby to impart as much wisdom onto.
Jennifer Love Hewitt’s Maddie was badly injured in 9-1-1 season 8, and while the scene was gory, the show has featured many other gruesome incidents.
It’s fitting that Buck was the one there just before Athena when we learned that Bobby was sick from the virus. This gave Bobby one last chance to be the man Buck needed, making it clear that Buck would get through this.
9-1-1 Season 6 Already Explained Why Buck Can't Be Bobby's 118 Replacement
Buck Isn’t Ready To Be A Leader Just Yet
There was never really a question of Buck taking over as the 118 captain in 9-1-1 season 9, and it seems like he also doesn't want it. Oliver Stark told TV Insider that Buck would have to accept that he’s not the one doing all the intense saves as captain, and that’s not something Buck wants in 9-1-1 season 9 right now.
I think the thing that he would struggle with the most being captain is not being the one that does the cool stuff, right? As captain, you’re not necessarily the one that’s meant to do the rope rescue or running first to the fire, and I think we’ve seen that that is very much Buck’s nature.
Buck wanted that position, but in the end, Bobby chose Hen. Bobby shared with Buck that he just wasn’t ready for the responsibility yet, because he needed more life experience and it's time for Buck to mature in 9-1-1 season 9.
It’s only been three years since that conversation, and Buck still hasn’t gained the life experience that he needs. That being said, when he does become captain, he will make a great one, as he has learned from the best in 9-1-1.
