Characters on long-running prime-time dramas rarely grow emotionally.
From the first episode to the last, they stand as the same.
Olivia Benson is still the depressed detective apprehending perps on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” Dr. Meredith Grey remains the same passionate life-saver that she was in the first season of “Grey’s Anatomy” as she is now in the 43rd season.
It’s part of the appeal of genre TV, what marks them as comfort food.
But the 100th episode of the first-responder show “9-1-1” earlier this month stunned viewers as it pulled on a string lingering for approximately five seasons, give or take, as firefighter Evan “Buck” Buckley (Oliver Stark) was kissed by a man.
And he liked it.
The episode found Buck competing with his best pal Eddie (Ryan Guzman) over the attention of new friend, helicopter pilot Tommy (Lou Ferrigno Jr.).
But was Buck jealous of Eddie or Tommy?
That question isn’t so easy to answer. It’s something hardcore shippers of “Buddie” – Buck and Eddie – wonder about. Since season two, the show has highlighted the deep bond between the two men. Buck and Eddie are the most important people in each other’s lives. The two even co-parent Eddie’s disabled son. For many viewers, the next logical step would seem to never come. Was it all just queerbaiting for ratings?
This episode – in the seventh season, no less – changed everything.
When Buck tried to apologize for his silly behavior, Tommy took the moment in hand – with two fingers lifting Buck’s chin – and kissed him.
And just like that, heads and hearts exploded all over social media.
The following week, Buck shared a hilariously awkward date with Tommy, came out to both his sister and Eddie, and convinced Tommy to give him another chance – by being his date at his sister’s wedding.
Hoo boy. That’s a bit much for a second date by any standard.
But the two actors are just so damn charming together, it’s impossible not to root for their characters. Their moments are light-hearted, romantic, affirming and fun to watch.
The story has generated the kind of positive press other network shows can only dream about, and quite possibly the most press “9-1-1” has ever received.
And star Oliver Stark is quite clear he loves the story and that it is long overdue. Buck has always been bisexual, it’s just that he’s now discovering it for himself. The trail of bricks – not breadcrumbs – has existed for years. You just had to have your eyes open to see it.
On Instagram, Stark had a message for the few vocal haters who say they are quitting the show:
“You are not required to announce your departure.”
But what of Buddie? Could it happen?
Right now, that question feels beside the point. Buck has started his journey to understanding himself, and this should be all about him.
Fox canceled “9-1-1” after six seasons, but ABC saved it, and the show has been winning boffo ratings in its new home. The network has already renewed it for an eighth season.
Sometimes it’s not good to take chances.
When it comes to comfort TV, it’s great.
Mark Perigard 