Oliver Stark, who plays Buck on ABC’s 9-1-1, expressed gratitude for the positive response to his character’s storyline involving a same-sex kiss. While some fans were thrilled to see Buck exploring his sexuality, others did not react favorably. Stark emphasized that the show promotes love and inclusion and has featured queer relationships from the start. He also addressed those who were not happy with the new storyline, stating that their opinions did not matter to him.
The show also features other LGBTQ+ characters with significant storylines, such as Hen and Karen. Stark defended Buck’s exploration of his bisexuality, stating that those who are unable to accept this development may have missed the point of the show. He urged viewers who were unhappy with the storyline to simply stop watching. The 100th episode of the show featured Buck kissing firefighter Tommy Kinard, a moment that fans who have long hoped for Buck to explore his sexuality found significant.
Stark shared that he had to step back from social media because he could not publicly agree with the idea of Buck exploring his sexuality without confirming what would happen in the show. He thanked fans for supporting the storyline and expressed his hope that they would continue to enjoy the story as it unfolds. According to Stark, the exploration of Buck’s sexual identity will continue throughout season 7, with his struggle representing a universally relatable experience of not knowing what is missing until it is brought to light.
The actor explained that Buck’s journey on the show involves him realizing what has been lacking in his life and going through a cathartic and liberating process of self-discovery. The storyline is focused on Buck’s gradual awareness of his own desires and the relief that comes with accepting and embracing his true self. 9-1-1 season 7 airs on Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, allowing viewers to continue following the unfolding narrative surrounding Buck’s exploration of his sexuality and the impact it has on his character development.
