9-1-1 Star Ryan Guzman Reflects on Eddie's Journey with Christopher in Season 7 (Exclusive)

9-1-1 star Ryan Guzman shared that his character, Eddie, will need to adjust to his son, Christopher, growing up and becoming a teenager.

Speaking exclusively to We about season 7 of the ABC show, Guzman mentioned that Gavin McHugh, who plays Christopher, has grown taller and now speaks like a typical teenager. Guzman noted the synchronicity between the character's development and the actor's real-life growth, saying, "Watching him portray Christopher in this new way is amazing to see how much he has matured."

Guzman and McHugh, 13, started on 9-1-1 in the show’s second season as a single father and his son embarking on a new chapter after Christopher’s mom, Shannon (Devin Kelley), left them. In her absence, Eddie relied on members of the 118, like Buck (Oliver Stark), for support as he raised his son, who has cerebral palsy. However, in Season 7, Chris desires more independence from his dad, presenting Eddie with the challenge of parenting a teenager.

In the season opener, Eddie and Christopher clash when Eddie learns that Christopher has been dating multiple girls in his class simultaneously. Despite seeking advice from Buck, Guzman mentioned that Eddie will need to grant Christopher more freedom and space as they move forward.

"I think Christopher's journey will be about discovering a new version of himself," he explained. "And for Eddie, it's about giving him the space to do so. Eddie has always been very involved in Christopher's life, from what he eats to what he does. This will be a chance for Eddie to step back and see if he can do that."

Guzman couldn't praise McHugh and his performance enough. "I think he's been doing an amazing job this season," Guzman said. He highlighted how McHugh excels in portraying the playful dynamic between the father and son.

Season 7 doesn't just focus on Christopher's dating adventures. Eddie is also figuring out his relationship with his girlfriend, Marisol (played by Edy Ganem). In episode 4, the couple decides to move in together hastily while Christopher is away for a few days. However, Eddie soon realizes it might have been too rushed and takes back the offer.

GAVIN MCHUGH, 9-1-1

Guzmain pointed out that Eddie's realization that things are moving too quickly is a significant moment of growth. He emphasized the importance of Eddie understanding the person he is dealing with before bringing them into his complicated life.

Putting his son first is also imperative. Eddie emphasized, "I think first and foremost is what it will do for Christopher. He’s always got Christopher on the front end of his mind." This focus on his son has brought a lot of growth to Eddie, leaving him feeling hopeful once again.

In more ways than one, season 7 has shown a lighter side to Eddie. This shift in his character may surprise long-time viewers, as Eddie has faced challenges such as serving in Afghanistan, coping with the loss of his estranged wife, battling panic attacks and PTSD, and surviving a near-fatal gunshot wound. Despite his past struggles, Guzman believes it is time for Eddie to have some fun.

"He mentioned to Us that we've experienced all the tough and dramatic moments, the past seasons of him enduring his battles and losing his friends, carrying a lot of weight. He believes that the key to revealing this newfound lightness is by reconnecting with his community."

Of course, this community refers to the 118, particularly Buck and Captain Nash (Peter Krause), who Guzman describes as Eddie's pillars of support.

Guzman mentioned that allowing Eddie to be vulnerable in front of Buck and Bobby and share his story in a safe space has provided both him as the actor and Eddie as the character with the chance to be more lighthearted and have fun. According to Guzman, Eddie's current mindset is focused on turning things around and finding ways to be more positive.

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights the challenges and growth that Ryan Guzman's character, Eddie, faces in season 7 of "9-1-1." Eddie must adjust to his son Christopher's adolescence and increasing independence, which presents a new dynamic in their relationship. Guzman emphasizes the importance of Eddie finding a balance between giving Christopher space and being there for him.

Guzman also notes the lighter side that emerges in Eddie's character this season. After enduring numerous challenges, including military service, loss, and PTSD, Eddie is ready to embrace joy and rebuild his life. His connection with the 118, particularly Buck and Captain Nash, provides him with a sense of support and belonging that allows him to navigate the complexities of fatherhood and relationships. Overall, season 7 of "9-1-1" explores themes of growth, change, and the resilience of the human spirit.