As filming for 9-1-1 season 9 bittersweetly kicks off, a beloved presence is there to support the cast. While most of the LAFD station 118 firefighters are returning to their posts, the fallen captain Bobby Nash (Peter Krause) is notably absent. Though Bobby fearlessly led the team since the drama’s 2018 premiere, 9-1-1’s most tragic death occurred in season 8.
Beyond devastating the audience, Bobby’s controversial death had widespread consequences, including inadvertently threatening Peter Krause’s 27-year TV legacy. Given that Bobby is 9-1-1’s first main character to die, his departure has been especially painful. Many even claim they will never watch 9-1-1 again unless Bobby miraculously returns. Thankfully, the 9-1-1 cast has an adorable support system for season 9's filming.
It's Great To See Bear Back As A Steady Presence For The Actors After Peter Krause's Exit
9-1-1 Season 9 Will Be An Emotional Filming Experience
While Bobby dying was the saddest 9-1-1 moment to watch, it was equally heartbreaking for the cast and crew who worked with Peter Krause for the past seven years. From farewell posts to emotional interview responses, it’s clear that the cast of 9-1-1 is still grieving Krause’s unexpected exit. Luckily, they have a friendly face on set: Bear the dog.
Every time Oliver Stark’s (Buck) dog appears in behind-the-scenes content, it’s a pleasant surprise. As Stark’s pet, Bear has visited the 9-1-1 set many times, to the envy of many fans who see Bear only via social media, like Oliver Stark’s recent Instagram post. Aside from simply being a delightful surprise, Bear offers something deeper to the cast this season.
9-1-1 season 9 is the first time the cast will be filming without Peter Krause present as an actor or executive producer. Though the rest of the cast are surely happy to be back, it’s undoubtedly a bittersweet experience to know that Bobby Nash is gone for good. Fortunately, Bear is there as 9-1-1’s most heartwarming aspect (albeit off-camera).
The 9-1-1 Season 9 Dynamic May Undoubtedly Feel Weird At First
Peter Krause's Bobby Nash Was Arguably The Most Important Character
Bear will be a comforting presence for the actors in between takes, but filming 9-1-1 season 9 may be more difficult to deal with. It’s clear that Bobby Nash is irreplaceable in 9-1-1, but the 118 need a new leader nonetheless. Hearing someone else be called captain may initially be uncomfortable, but it’s a necessary change.
9-1-1 returns Thursday, October 16 on ABC and will later stream on Hulu.
Without Krause, the rest of the 9-1-1 cast will have to navigate the new 118 and the unfamiliar dynamics that come with it. Partners may be swapped, longstanding roles may be reversed, and the entire team may function differently as a unit. 9-1-1 season 9 is the start of a new era, but Bear’s small comfort will ease the transition.
