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‘9-1-1’ Star Fires Back at Anti-LGBTQ+ Trolls Following Same-Sex Kiss Scene

"Buck embraces bisexuality in a groundbreaking kiss on 9-1-1, sparking fan excitement."
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In the thrilling world of TV drama, 9-1-1 has taken a giant leap forward and introduced a queer storyline for one of its existing characters.

That’s right 9-1-1 fans! Buck has confirmed his bisexuality with a steamy kiss.

Meanwhile, Oliver Stark, who plays the fearless firefighter Evan ‘Buck’ Buckley, has hit back at the naysayers upset over his character’s journey.

About the Kiss

In a landmark moment during the show’s 100th episode, Buck shared a significant kiss with his new pal Tommy (portrayed by Lou Ferrigno Jr.). While some fans were hoping for a romantic spark to ignite between Buck and his best buddy, Eddie (Ryan Guzman), this twist still had the show’s loyal queer audience cheering.

Stark told Entertainment Weekly that the kiss was “a long time coming” and said he was onboard from the start when he got the call from showrunner Tim Minear.

Facing the Trolls Head-On

However, not everyone was throwing confetti. A few trolls crept out from under their bridges, crying foul and calling the show “woke” for embracing diversity. But here’s the thing – 9-1-1 has always celebrated inclusivity, featuring a cast portraying all walks of life.

Stark himself wasn’t having any of the negativity. He’s over the moon with the love and support for Buck’s storyline and is more than ready to brush off any grumbles.

“Humbled and overwhelmed by the positive reaction to Buck’s storyline,” he wrote. “I’ve read so many of your messages and I couldn’t be prouder.

“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.”

Love Wins on 9-1-1

9-1-1 isn’t just about thrilling rescues and heart-stopping emergencies; it’s a show with a big heart. It’s highlighted various queer relationships over the years, like the touching marriage between Hen and Karen in season five.

“If one other character finding a new facet to his sexuality and [realising] his bisexuality is your deal breaker — I fear you’ve missed the entire point of the show,” he concluded. “You are not required to announce your departure.”

Online, many fans are puzzled that the kiss has caused any shock at all.

What’s Next for Buck and Eddie?

Amidst all this, there’s still the fun tease about Buck and Eddie’s evolving friendship. The dynamic duo, as Stark and Guzman hinted, might find their bond deepening in unexpected and exciting ways. The actors have promised some juicy developments, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

So, buckle up for more heartfelt storytelling as Ryan Murphy’s 9-1-1 continues to blaze a trail, showing that when it comes to telling compelling stories, embracing change is key.

Don’t forget to catch the latest twists and turns every Thursday on ABC!

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Author

  • Caitlynn McDaniel

    Caitlynn McDaniel is the Director of Communications and Talent Relations at Rainbow Media Co., overseeing PR strategy, talent outreach, and interview programming across LGBTQ+ brands Gayety and Pride. She covers all things entertainment—from buzzy TV drops to red carpet moments—and regularly conducts interviews with film, television, and music talent. A self-proclaimed Disney fanatic and music lover, Caitlynn also hosts a queer-focused podcast spotlighting LGBTQ+ voices in entertainment and culture. Pitches: [email protected]