One Little 9-1-1 Evan Buckley Detail That Proves Tevan Haters Are Wrong
It makes perfect sense when you know his complicated history.
Summary
- Season 7 of 9-1-1 was marred by some fans' disapproval of Buck Tommy's relationship development.
- One small thing points to the depth of the characters' connection and feelings.
- The actor behind Buck was very passionate about his character's story on his social media.
The 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes affected many popular shows. And while it wasn't (completely) canceled, 9-1-1 has to be the show that was hit the hardest. First, it was canceled by its original network, Fox, and picked up for a seventh season by ABC. Then it was delayed due to the strikes.
Fortunately, 9-1-1 returned to the air almost a month ago, much to the delight of viewers. But Season 7 also proved to be quite divisive, as many fans of the show were upset about Evan 'Buck' Buckley embracing his bisexuality with his friend-turned-romantic interest Tommy Kinard. But it seems there's a very important detail that Tevan haters are overlooking.
The Level of Trust
In Episode 4, with the help of his sister, Buck realizes the nature of his jealousy of Tommy – love. Without further ado, the fan-favorite firefighter shyly confesses his feelings to Tommy, who startles him with a sudden kiss.
Aside from being an absolutely heartfelt and sensual moment that underscores Buck's long journey to self-acceptance, the scene contains an elusive but important detail that helps understand the depth of Buck and Tommy's connection. The latter calls the former by his real name – Evan – and he doesn't seem to mind.
Buck had a difficult childhood that left an indelible mark on his relationship with his parents and with himself. He hides his true identity under the nickname Buck and won't let anyone, including his parents, call him by his real name. None of Buck's many girlfriends have ever called him Evan. But Tommy does it without a problem. And Buck… Evan accepts it, which only goes to show the level of trust and intimacy between the two characters. And in that light, their potential romance can only seem special.
Buck's Character Arc
Long before Tommy, Buck was friends with Eddie, and their relationship had strong romantic overtones, as they were often mistaken for a couple by other people. And while 9-1-1 teased viewers with this trope, it never developed into anything, and neither character came to realize their feelings for the other. This is why Buck's relationship with Tommy is crucial to character development, because he now understands a different side of himself. Maybe now that Evan is open and free, he can find his happiness.
Unfortunately, some viewers didn't appreciate the twist and said it ruined the whole show for them. Remarkably, Oliver Stark, who plays Buck, didn't hold back his opinion about such people.
'If you are one of the smaller group of people commenting on my posts about how this has ruined the show, I would like you to know that I truly don't care,' the actor shared on his Instagram story, defending Buck's storyline. 'If one other character finding a new facet to his sexuality and realizing his bisexuality is your deal breaker – I fear you've missed the entire point of the show.'
Given the intimacy of Buck and Tommy's relationship, that's a shame indeed. 9-1-1 will return with a new episode on April 11.
Source: Deadline.