9-1-1’s Oliver Stark Opens Up About Buck and Eddie's Complex Relationship (Exclusive)

9 1 1 s Oliver Stark Says Buck Doesn t Quite Understand What He s Feeling With His Eddie and Tommy Envy in Episode 100 007

Oliver Stark, Ryan Guzman. Disney (2) ; FOX / Justin Stephens

Oliver Stark reveals that in season 7 of 9-1-1, his character Evan "Buck" Buckley will rely on his close friendship with Eddie Diaz to navigate his emotions.

Approaching its 100th episode on April 4, the ABC series shows Buck on a quest to discover his own happiness. This journey has been a central theme for Buck since the show first aired in 2018. The upcoming episode 100, titled "Buck, Bothered and Bewildered," could be a significant move forward for his character.

The episode's synopsis, revealed this week, hints at a storyline where Buck becomes jealous of Eddie forming a close relationship with someone else. In promotional images for the episode, Buck appears frustrated by Eddie's new friendship with Tommy. Some fans have questioned why Buck would be upset about Eddie making a new friend, considering their strong bond since meeting in season 2.

Stark, 32, shared exclusively with We while promoting season 7, "I believe it's more about Buck feeling unsettled or uncertain, not necessarily about Eddie, but within himself. Sometimes, it's easier to project those feelings onto someone else rather than facing self-reflection and understanding our own emotions."

Stark pointed out that Buck's "searching" will be shown through his close friendship with Eddie, but there are deeper layers to his emotions.

After watching the episode, Stark explained that it becomes clear that Buck's feelings are more complex than simply not understanding them. He mentioned that the jealousy towards Eddie is just one way his unease is revealed, not the main reason behind it.

Stark admitted to feeling a sense of responsibility in portraying the story line as viewers anticipate episode 100. The exact cause of the "unease" is yet to be revealed.

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Jack Zeman from FOX shared his excitement about episode 100 of the show. He mentioned that there is a beautiful Buck story at the heart of the episode. When your name is in the title, you always feel a sense of responsibility to make the episode great.

9-1-1 is famous for its amazing cast, with Stark mentioning that every member will have their chance to stand out.

As for Buck, his storyline will go beyond episode 100 and into season 7. Stark revealed that despite his character's growth over the years, his journey is one that many can relate to: you only realize what is missing when it is brought to light.

9 1 1 s Oliver Stark Says Buck Doesn t Quite Understand What He s Feeling With His Eddie and Tommy Envy in Episode 100 006

Disney/Mike Taing

Stark shared with Us that Buck isn't consciously aware of what he's looking for or what's missing in his life. As he begins to realize this, there is a sense of relief and ease that comes with it.

Even though Buck has a fulfilling job, loving friends and coworkers, a close relationship with his sister, and has repaired his once-strained relationship with his parents, there is still one thing missing - a long-term romantic partner.

Stark has his own thoughts on what qualities the right match for the person should possess. According to him, it should be someone who can challenge the person, but not make it too easy for them. Looking back at the person's past relationships, Stark noticed that they have always been the one to have a crush and easily get the person, even though they may not have been the one to end the relationship.

Stark expressed his interest in seeing Buck face challenges and setbacks before winning over his next love interest. She mentioned that it adds depth to his character when things don't go as planned, and he has to put in extra effort to earn someone's affection.

Despite being a heartthrob, Buck is portrayed as an open book, showcasing vulnerability not commonly seen in male characters with traditionally "macho" professions. Stark appreciates this softer side of Buck's character and intentionally incorporates it into his portrayal.

9-1-1, OLIVER STARK

Disney/Chris Willard

"I believe that as an actor, the roles we take on give us the chance to delve into aspects of ourselves that we may not always explore in our daily lives," he shared. He mentioned that there are moments when he can be a bit more closed off than he would like. "So it's nice to have this opportunity to embrace that side of yourself."

Stark compared Buck to a "golden retriever" or a "labrador," echoing the sentiment that he is someone who leads with his heart and always shows compassion.

"I really love the opportunity to play him and I'm very conscious and intent on it," he said.

Behind the scenes of 9-1-1, there are many exciting things happening. The show has moved to ABC after being canceled by Fox last year, and Tim Minear is back as the showrunner. Stark mentioned that these changes have brought a new energy to the cast and crew.

ABC's excitement is reaching us, with Tim back writing the show and feeling thrilled to be back," Stark shared with Us. The show is incorporating new elements that bring a sense of excitement. It's hard not to feel that excitement and join in on it for me, the cast, and the crew.

"We're definitely feeling reenergized by it and just happy to be here."

New episodes of 9-1-1 season 7 air on ABC Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET

Editor's P/S:

Oliver Stark, who plays Evan "Buck" Buckley in the hit TV series 9-1-1, reveals that his character's emotional journey in season 7 will be explored through his close friendship with Eddie Diaz. Stark explains that Buck's feelings of jealousy towards Eddie's new friendship stem from a deeper sense of uncertainty within himself. This storyline highlights the importance of self-reflection and understanding one's own emotions, which can be difficult but necessary for personal growth.

Stark's portrayal of Buck showcases the character's vulnerability and openness, which is often not seen in male characters with traditionally "macho" professions. Stark believes that this softer side of Buck allows him to explore aspects of himself that he may not always explore in his daily life. The show's move to ABC and the return of showrunner Tim Minear have brought a renewed energy to the cast and crew, which is reflected in the exciting new elements being incorporated into the show.