The Evolution of Buck and Eddie's Friendship on 9-1-1: From Acquaintances to Brothers

9 1 1 s Evan Buck Buckley and Eddie Diaz s Relationship Timeline From Strangers to Family 336

Oliver Stark as Evan “Buck” Buckley, Ryan Guzman as Eddie Diaz. Disney/Justin Stephens

Evan “Buck” Buckley and Eddie Diaz from 9-1-1 have captured the hearts of fans as a beloved duo since the show’s second season. Some fans are even hoping that their friendship will blossom into something more.

Portrayed by Oliver Stark and Ryan Guzman, Buck and Eddie quickly form a strong bond when Eddie joins the 118 in season 2. During a massive earthquake in Los Angeles early in Eddie’s time with the team, Buck goes above and beyond to ensure the safety of Eddie’s son, Christopher (played by Gavin McHugh). This moment is seen as a pivotal one that solidifies the deep friendship between the two characters, according to Stark.

Stark revealed in 2022 that Buck drove Eddie to pick up Christopher at the end of those episodes, showing a meaningful gesture. Despite Eddie having his own car, Buck wanted to show his willingness to be there for him after everything they had been through. This moment signified their commitment to be a part of each other's lives.

Throughout the show's six seasons, Buck and Eddie have consistently supported each other in personal and professional matters. Buck has even taken on a role as a second father figure to Christopher. Their shared struggles in finding lasting relationships have sparked speculation about the possibility of their bond evolving beyond friendship.

Stark believes that the pair’s popularity stems from their enjoyable and balanced energy. They have a deep understanding of each other and are always there for one another.

He mentioned, "They have truly become intertwined in each other's lives. They have bonded and connected on various levels - whether it's work, personal life, or simply enjoying each other's company. It's a great recipe for a strong relationship, no matter how you look at it."

Season 7 of 9-1-1 premieres on ABC Thursday, March 14, at 8 p.m. ET.

Keep scrolling for a full timeline of Buck and Eddie’s friendship:

Introduction to Their Meeting

Buck and Eddie first meet in the season 2 episode “Under Pressure” when Eddie becomes an official member of the 118. Initially, Buck is a bit intimidated by the new team member. However, they quickly bond when they work together to remove a live grenade from a 9-1-1 caller’s leg. Eddie compliments Buck, calling him a “badass under pressure,” and their friendship begins.

9 1 1 s Evan Buck Buckley and Eddie Diaz s Relationship Timeline From Strangers to Family 335

Disney/Chris Willard

Pseudo Parenthood

During season 2, Eddie faces challenges in finding consistent help to care for Christopher, his son with cerebral palsy. Buck steps in and introduces Eddie to home aide Carla (played by Abigail Clark), leading to a closer bond between Eddie and Carla. Meanwhile, Buck's connection with Christopher also strengthens over time. (This will be important later on in the story.)

A Major Disaster

During the season 3 premiere, Buck calls Eddie his “best friend” when Christopher goes missing during a tsunami in Santa Monica. Buck feels guilty for losing Chris, but Eddie reassures him that there is no one he trusts more with his son than Buck.

9 1 1 s Evan Buck Buckley and Eddie Diaz s Relationship Timeline From Strangers to Family 334

Disney/Chris Willard

Lawsuit Division

In season 3 of the show, a rift develops between the two friends when Buck decides to sue the LAFD. This happens after Bobby instructs him to take on lighter duties following injuries from the tsunami. Fortunately, their friendship is restored in the episode called "Monsters" when Eddie understands that Buck's actions were never meant to harm the 118 team.

A Christmas Trio

When Buck realizes Eddie is behaving strangely, he learns that Eddie has been participating in street fights to deal with his PTSD instead of seeking therapy. Buck invites Eddie and Chris to his place for pizza and video games in “Fallout,” during which Eddie opens up about his reservations towards traditional therapy. By the end of the episode, Eddie acknowledges that spending time with Buck and his son has a greater positive impact on him than any professional therapy sessions.

In season 3's "Christmas Spirit," a special moment for fans of "Buddie" unfolds as Buck devises a plan to ensure Eddie can spend Christmas Day with Christopher, despite his work obligations. Bringing the festive cheer to the 118, Buck orchestrates a joyful holiday for everyone.

This episode marks the second major holiday event with the trio, following the heartwarming trip to see Santa Claus in season 2's "Ex-Mas." During that excursion, a stranger mistook Buck and Eddie for a couple and referred to Christopher as their "adorable son." Although the misunderstanding arose, Buck chose not to set the record straight.

Almost Lost

In the 15th episode of season 13, titled "Eddie Begins," we witness the strong bond between the duo. The episode not only delves into Eddie's past but also showcases his bravery as he descends into the ground to rescue a young boy trapped in a pipe. When Eddie's cord is accidentally cut 50 feet below, Buck frantically digs through the mud in a heavy downpour to save him. Just as Buck fears the worst, believing he has lost his best friend, Eddie miraculously appears and is safe.

OLIVER STARK, GAVIN MCHUGH

Disney/Chris Willard

Another Scary Moment

Almost a year later, Buck is left stunned when Eddie is shot by a sniper in the episode "Suspicion" of season 4. Helpless, Buck witnesses his friend's injury and coma. Overwhelmed with emotion, Buck confides in Christopher, who consoles him like a father figure. When Eddie regains consciousness, he entrusts Buck with the care of his son should anything happen to him.

Buck Shows Up

Eddie tells Buck that no one will ever fight for his son as hard as him. He mentions that he had prepared the papers almost a year ago. When Buck questions why Eddie is sharing this now, Eddie explains that it is because Buck had expressed a wish that he had been the one shot. Eddie reassures Buck that he is not expendable, despite his beliefs. (Fans of Buddie will appreciate Eddie using Buck's proper first name, Evan.)

Lightning Strikes

Season 5 may have felt a bit dry for fans of Buck and Eddie, but they finally get a significant moment in episode 13 titled “Fear-o-Phobia.” Eddie's PTSD triggers a breakdown, leading him to destroy his bedroom. Christopher reaches out to Buck, who quickly comes to Eddie's aid.

In season 6 of the show "In a Flash," there is a dramatic moment when Eddie witnesses Buck being struck by lightning. The doctors work frantically to save Buck's life, while Eddie can't help but break down in tears, pleading with them to do everything they can to save his best friend.

After Buck makes a full recovery, he comes back home only to find his new couch uncomfortable. So, he decides to stay at Eddie's house and sleep on his couch instead. (We're not outright saying that the couch symbolizes something deeper between Buck and Eddie, but we're also not denying it.)

A Glimpse into Another Life

Buck finds himself in a coma in the sixth season episode "In Another Life," where he envisions a world without his presence at the 118. In this alternate reality, we encounter an Eddie who is filled with anger after losing custody of Christopher. This loss is attributed to his struggle in juggling the responsibilities of being a single parent and a firefighter. The scenario highlights the impact Buck has had on Eddie's life, especially when he introduced him to Carla back in season 2. With Buck by his side, Eddie is not left to navigate the challenges of single parenthood.

Editor's P/S:

The profound bond between Buck and Eddie has captivated audiences, igniting speculation about the potential for their friendship to evolve into something more. Their unwavering support for each other through personal and professional challenges has solidified their connection as inseparable confidants. The show's creators have masterfully woven moments that hint at a deeper connection between the characters, fueling fan theories and leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the future of their relationship.

The article provides a comprehensive timeline of Buck and Eddie's friendship, highlighting key moments that have shaped their bond. From their initial meeting to Eddie's near-death experiences, each event has strengthened their connection and deepened their understanding of each other. The inclusion of fan reactions and insights from the actors portraying Buck and Eddie adds another layer of depth to the discussion, offering a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics that contribute to the chemistry between the characters.