Now That My Favorite Character Is Returning In 9-1-1, Season 9 Needs To Bring Back Its Iconic Trend After 4 Years

9-1-1 may be losing one pivotal character, but an up-and-coming member of LAFD station 118 could bring back a beloved series tradition. The firmly negative backlash to Bobby Nash’s death in 9-1-1 raised questions about the first responder drama’s future, given Peter Krause’s central role. Nevertheless, the controversial storyline could offer deserving— but often sidelined— characters development opportunities in season 9.

Despite sending off the iconic fire captain, 9-1-1’s found family could become stronger than ever by deepening the remaining characters’ bonds and forging new relationships. The intense disasters in 9-1-1 make for an easy hook, but the ensemble cast is what has always resonated most. Fortunately, 9-1-1 season 9 even has the perfect way to incorporate its new main character.

9-1-1 Needs To Finally Film A Ravi Begins Episode

The Begins Episodes Have Been Some Of The Series' Finest

​​​​​​Anirudh Pisharody’s Ravi Panikkar has been a familiar face since he was introduced in 9-1-1 season 4, but the former probie never managed to break down the wall between him and the department’s A Team. After Eddie Diaz’s (Ryan Guzman) shocking move to Texas in 9-1-1 season 8, however, Ravi proved himself as a true team member in the 118.

To confirm his new main character status, 9-1-1 season 9 needs to focus on Ravi’s background more by returning to its famous “Begins” episodes. Nearly every main character has had their “Begins” episode, dedicated to explaining their past and how it correlates to their present self. The unique but easily replicable formula made what many consider 9-1-1’s best masterpieces.

Rather than fall back on one of 9-1-1’s memorable villains, the “Begins” episodes are character-driven and add substance to the firefighters, bringing them from good to great. In certain cases, the episodes can even clear up misconceptions or patch plot holes to make 9-1-1’s continuity more cohesive. Plus, if anyone in the 118 deserves more depth, it’s Ravi.

Ravi’s Vague Backstory Already Has The Perfect Hook For A Begins Episode

Everything In 9-1-1 Goes Back To Trauma

The only trend more common than the “Begins” episode is 9-1-1’s near-death experiences, which often perfectly overlap. “Eddie Begins” showed the army medic’s volatile history with his wife as he fought for his life in the present timeline. Similarly, “Chimney Begins” had flashes of the past interwoven with the consequences of his potentially fatal stab wound in the future.