Buck’s maturity has been a gradual process. For fans who have arrived at the first responder drama later than others, the version of Buck that Stark played in season 1 would be virtually unrecognizable to the more reliable and empathetic character that struggled to say goodbye to Bobby. But as revealed by Stark, the loss of his father figure will propel Buck’s growth to the forefront.

In an interview with Principle Magazine, Stark was asked about how he would like to see Buck evolve. In his response, included below, the actor discusses his desire for Buck to carry forward Bobby’s legacy of helping young firefighters and supporting their growth. Stark specifically mentions that Bobby filled that role for him. In that same spirit, Stark says he hopes that Buck will do the same for others:

“Bobby was so instrumental to who Buck was on the show, and I really wanna see him carry that proudly and feel like he’s doing justice to all the things that he learned through Captain Nash. I want him to carry the banner and help the younger firefighters around him. We have a couple on the show, and so to almost step into that mentor role that Bobby was for Buck, I think it’s time for him to maybe start doing that for some others.”

As revealed by the 9-1-1 season 8 episode “Sick Day”, in which Buck comforted Ravi (Anirudh Pisharody), Buck has been steadily but consistently stepping into a leadership role. It could be an even more prominent aspect of the character moving forward, however, especially considering Bobby’s parting words to Buck. When 9-1-1 fans think about heart, leadership, and unwavering loyalty, Captain Bobby Nash is at the top of the list. But what happens when the glue that holds the team together is suddenly… gone?

Actor Oliver Stark, who plays fan-favorite Evan “Buck” Buckley, has dropped emotional and powerful hints about Buck’s journey following Bobby’s shocking death. What he reveals paints a picture of transformation, grief, and maybe even redemption. Let’s dive deep into what’s coming for Buck — and why his future might be more intense, more raw, and more unexpected than ever before.

Buck’s World Without Bobby: What It Really Means

 Bobby’s Role in Buck’s Growth

Bobby was more than just a firehouse captain. He was Buck’s father figure, mentor, and compass. From Buck’s reckless beginnings to his emotional maturity, Bobby guided him every step of the way.

Without that grounding force, Buck may be lost — or worse, revert to old habits.

A Massive Emotional Shift

Oliver Stark has teased a major internal shift. Think of Buck standing at a crossroads, torn between pain and purpose. This isn’t just about missing Bobby — it’s about what Buck becomes without him.

From Hero to Loose Cannon?

Stark’s Hint at a Darker Path

In recent interviews, Stark hinted at Buck “struggling to keep his footing.” That’s code for one thing: emotional chaos. We’re not talking about a small funk. We’re talking deep, personal unraveling.

Could Buck Fall Off the Wagon Emotionally?

Fans who’ve followed Buck’s evolution know how far he’s come — from impulsive rookie to a man who puts his team first. But grief? It changes people. Could he snap? Shut down? Seek comfort in dangerous ways?

Trauma and Triggers: Buck’s Inner Demons

Revisiting His Abandonment Issues

Let’s not forget — Buck already carries deep scars. From his complicated relationship with his parents to feeling like the “extra” sibling, Bobby’s death reopens old wounds.

PTSD and Survivor’s Guilt

Being part of a rescue team means facing death all the time. But losing Bobby, someone who felt invincible, might be the one trauma Buck can’t bounce back from easily.

What Oliver Stark Really Said

“Buck is Going to Struggle…”

In Stark’s own words:

“Buck is going to struggle in ways we haven’t seen before. It’s not just grief — it’s identity crisis, guilt, and reevaluating who he is.”

Translation? We’re in for one hell of a ride.

Buck Rebuilding Himself: Phoenix Rising or Total Breakdown?

Will He Step Into Bobby’s Shoes?

There’s speculation Buck might eventually take on more leadership in Bobby’s absence. But can he handle the weight? Or will it crush him?

Redemption Arc Incoming?

Fans love a comeback story. Could Buck fall apart only to rebuild stronger, wiser — maybe even as the next captain?

The Team’s Role in Buck’s Journey

Chimney and Hen — Lifelines or Pressure Points?

His longtime friends and coworkers, Chimney and Hen, could either be anchors or triggers. Will they push him toward healing, or will tensions rise as they grieve in their own way?

Eddie Diaz — Buck’s Emotional Rock

We have to talk about Eddie. These two have been through literal life-and-death moments. Eddie might be Buck’s only safe space — or, their bond might get tested like never before.

Acting Beyond the Script: Oliver Stark’s Emotional Challenge

Playing Grief Authentically

Stark is no stranger to heavy scenes, but portraying a character collapsing under grief? That’s next-level. He’s promised an authentic, gut-wrenching performance.

What Could Season 8 Look Like for Buck?

Possibilities Ahead

• Flashbacks of Bobby: Giving Buck clarity or closure

• Therapy Scenes: Finally addressing his trauma

• New Leadership Challenges: Getting thrown into the deep end

• Mental Health Focus: Letting viewers feel what Buck’s going through

A New Love Interest?

Grief can sometimes lead to reckless decisions — including rebound relationships. Could romance complicate Buck’s healing?

Buck’s Core Values Will Be Tested

Does He Still Believe in the Job?

Without Bobby’s guidance, Buck might question the very mission that keeps him going. Is saving others worth the cost of losing those closest to you?

Duty vs. Emotion

This will likely be one of Buck’s biggest battles yet. Can he remain the rock the team needs — or will he crumble under the emotional toll?

Fan Theories: What the 9-1-1 Community Is Saying

Social Media Buzz

Reddit threads and Twitter feeds are exploding with theories:

• “Buck will take a leave of absence”

• “He’ll lash out at Athena”

• “He’ll spiral then rise stronger than ever”

Fans are invested, and rightly so.

The Legacy of Bobby Nash

What Bobby Meant to Buck — And the Fans

Bobby wasn’t just a leader. He was the heart of the team, a father figure, a man who believed in second chances. His absence won’t just affect Buck — it changes the soul of 9-1-1.

Why This Storyline Might Be the Best Yet

Emotional Depth Meets Character Evolution

We’ve seen fire rescues, earthquakes, and tsunamis. But this? This is about the emotional disaster zone inside someone’s heart. And that’s where true storytelling lives.

Final Thoughts: Buck’s Road Ahead Will Break and Build Him

Buck’s journey post-Bobby won’t be easy — and that’s what makes it worth watching. Oliver Stark’s teasing hints tell us this will be an emotional rollercoaster of grief, anger, reflection, and, hopefully, healing.

We’re not just watching a firefighter face another call.
We’re watching a man figure out who he is when the person who helped him become that man… is gone.