In the world of television, where seasons come and go, the cast and crew of 9-1-1 have a lot to celebrate as they wrap up Season 9 and gear up for the highly anticipated Season 10. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Oliver Stark, the talented actor behind the character of Buck, to delve into some of his favorite moments from the recent season and to get a glimpse of what lies ahead.
A Journey Through Season 9
One of the standout episodes for Stark was "Going Twice," where Buck's insecurities about his age and physical appearance came to the forefront. The challenge of embodying a confident, striptease-performing Buck was a departure from Stark's usual reserved nature, making it a memorable and rewarding experience. This episode not only pushed Stark out of his comfort zone but also showcased the character's growth and self-acceptance.
Emotionally, Season 9, Episode 15, "Pick Your Poison," left a profound impact on Stark. The montage at the end, depicting Buck's struggle with dependence and the support of his loved ones, resonated deeply. It encapsulated the essence of the show, highlighting the power of community and love in overcoming personal battles.
The desert-set episode, "Mother's Boy," inspired by the film Misery, offered a unique twist. Stark appreciated how the episode explored the dynamic between Buck and Eddie, pushing the boundaries of network television with its intensity and darkness. The scene where Bonnie prods Buck with a cattle prod, forcing him to confront his vulnerabilities, was a favorite moment for Stark, showcasing the character's vulnerability and the show's willingness to explore complex themes.
Overcoming Fears and Embracing Challenges
Stark's fear of karaoke, revealed in Season 7, is a fascinating aspect of his character. Despite this fear, he bravely tackled the karaoke scene with Ryan Guzman, and later, the car sing-along in "Mother's Boy." The latter, however, was less nerve-wracking due to its intimate setting. The challenge, this time, was memorizing the lyrics, which Stark and Guzman managed by taping them to the dashboard. This light-hearted moment adds a layer of authenticity to the characters' journey.
Season 10: A New Chapter
As we look forward to Season 10, the focus shifts to Buck's journey as a single dad and his navigation of the foster system. Stark hints at the impact this will have on Buck's personal life and his approach to dating. With Theo in the picture, Buck's choices will be guided by his parental responsibilities, adding a new layer of complexity to his character arc.
Showrunner Tim Minear's decision to bring back the sperm donor storyline suggests a potential love interest for Buck, but one that would need to fit into his new life as a father. Stark's perspective on love, emphasizing its unconditional nature, sets the tone for the character's growth and the show's exploration of various forms of love.
The future of 9-1-1 promises to be exciting, with Stark open to pushing boundaries, even if it means playing a British doppelgänger of Buck. As we await the new season, the show's ability to surprise and engage its audience remains a constant.
Personally, I find it fascinating how television shows can evolve and adapt, offering fresh perspectives and challenges for their characters. 9-1-1's commitment to exploring complex themes and pushing the envelope is a testament to its longevity and popularity.
