ABC Just Got Rid Of Its Best Post-Bobby Nash 9-1-1 Replacement

9-1-1’s first main character death sparked major controversy, but ABC lost its perfect Thursday night alternative. Peter Krause leaving the first-responder drama was a palpable loss in the closing episodes of season 8, but Bobby Nash’s death in 9-1-1 will permanently alter the series, starting with the upcoming season 9. For many viewers, the fallen captain was an irredeemable decision.

Beyond forcing a total restructuring of LAFD Station 118, 9-1-1 threatened Peter Krause’s TV legacy by writing out his iconic character. The backlash remains severe, but one series could have ironically benefited from Bobby’s divisive death. While hordes of fans are continuously threatening to abandon 9-1-1 unless Bobby miraculously reappears, ABC’s other drama, Doctor Odyssey— could’ve filled the void.

Doctor Odyssey Was The Perfect Low-Stakes Replacement For 9-1-1 After Bobby's Death

Prior to Bobby’s devastating departure, 9-1-1 was adored for its absurd storylines and easily watchable feel. There weren’t high stakes, but that worked in the procedural’s favor; in a sea of character-killing melodramas, 9-1-1 was a blissful reprieve, rooted in a lovable found family. Of course, everything changed when the procedural’s father figure was cruelly killed during 9-1-1: Contagion.

It will be difficult— if not impossible— for 9-1-1 to recapture its former glory as low-stakes entertainment, meaning shows like Doctor Odyssey could have taken up the mantle during the 2025-26 TV season. Everything from Doctor Odyssey’s luxury cruise ship setting to its star-studded guest stars made the medical drama feel like a spectacle rather than something to take seriously.

Beyond hooks like Doctor Odyssey’s ridiculous theme weeks, the procedural was already connected to the 9-1-1 universe, which could have facilitated a relatively painless transition. Doctor Odyssey could have further leaned into its outrageous characteristics and fully committed to becoming a casual viewing hit. While heartbreaking, 9-1-1 taking such a drastic and dramatic turn was Doctor Odyssey’s golden opportunity.

Why Doctor Odyssey Isn't Returning For Season 2 On ABC

Sadly, Doctor Odyssey will never get to reap the rewards of succeeding a season of post-Bobby 9-1-1. From the beginning, the fate of Doctor Odyssey season 2 was left to creator Ryan Murphy, who reportedly had concerns regarding the procedural’s creative direction. After the cast options officially expired in June, ABC confirmed Doctor Odyssey wouldn’t return in fall 2025.

Theoretically, Doctor Odyssey could be picked up elsewhere or have a belated return to ABC, but by then, it would be too late to pick up 9-1-1 season 9’s slack. If Doctor Odyssey does eventually release a second season, it could still provide low-stakes fun for the audience— but it will have missed its potentially most successful opportunity.