Oliver Stark, who plays firefighter Evan “Buck” Buckley on the show “9-1-1,” recently responded to homophobic viewers who criticized a same-sex kiss between his character and another firefighter in the show’s 100th episode. Stark thanked his fans for their positive reaction to the storyline but made it clear that he does not care about the backlash from those who disapprove of the kiss.
Stark emphasized that “9-1-1” is a show about love and inclusion, featuring queer relationships since the beginning. He stated that if someone cannot accept a character exploring their bisexuality, they have missed the point of the show. Stark made it clear that he does not care about losing viewers who cannot accept the diverse representation in the show and their departure does not need to be announced.
The drama series “9-1-1,” created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear, follows the lives of Los Angeles first responders, including firefighters like Buck and Tommy. Stark revealed that Minear approached him about making his character bisexual and how he agreed that it was the most truthful way to continue Buck’s storyline. Despite the lack of notice, Stark expressed excitement about telling this new aspect of Buck’s character.
Stark’s co-star Angela Bassett, who plays another character on the show, voiced her surprise at Buck’s onscreen kiss, as he was initially portrayed as a ladies’ man. However, she acknowledged the importance of showing this new facet of his sexuality and how it adds layers to his character. “9-1-1” continues to air new episodes on Thursdays on ABC, showcasing diverse storylines and relationships among its characters to promote love and inclusion.
Stark’s response to homophobic viewers reflects his commitment to portraying diverse and inclusive storylines on “9-1-1.” The show has featured queer relationships from the beginning, and Buck’s exploration of his bisexuality is a natural progression of his character. By standing firm in his support for the LGBTQ+ community, Stark sends a message of acceptance and love that is at the core of the show’s narrative.
As the show continues to push boundaries and explore new aspects of its characters’ identities, Stark’s willingness to embrace Buck’s bisexuality sets a positive example for viewers. By addressing the backlash and asserting the importance of inclusion, Stark reinforces the values of the show and the importance of representing diverse identities on screen. The response to Buck’s storyline reflects a larger cultural shift towards greater acceptance and representation in media.
