The showrunner for the hit series 9-1-1 has talked directly about the popular “Buddie” fan theory. Tim Minear made it clear that while the connection between Buck and Eddie will be a focus, their story is not the same as a romance-centered show like Heated Rivalry. The statement is expected to disappoint some dedicated fans who have hoped for a romantic relationship to develop between the two first responders.
The series returns from its mid-season break on January 8, 2026, on ABC. Fans are now waiting to see how the show handles the dynamic between firefighter Evan “Buck” Buckley and firefighter-paramedic Edmundo “Eddie” Díaz when new episodes air.
What The 9-1-1 Showrunner Said About Buddie And Heated Rivalry
Tim Minear spoke about the topic in a recent interview. He expressed affection for the fans who support the idea of Buck and Eddie as a couple but drew a clear line about the show’s nature.
“It is a very difficult subject because I love the Buddie fans, and I am one of them,” Minear said. “It’s different than Heated Rivalry, where that is the show — the show is about those two guys getting together. That’s not what this show is.”
He added that this perspective might upset some viewers, but he believes the exciting part is the potential of the relationship, not necessarily its fulfillment. Heated Rivalry is a popular series focused on a secret romance between two rival hockey players, a premise very different from the emergency drama of 9-1-1. Minear’s comments suggest the show will continue to focus on their deep, foundational friendship within the wider world of the 118 firehouse, rather than shifting to make a romance the central plot.
Actor Oliver Stark’s Take On A Potential Buddie Storyline
Oliver Stark, the actor who plays Buck, has also shared his thoughts on the possibility of “Buddie” happening. He spoke about it last year, agreeing that any major character development should feel true to the story, not just done to please fans.
“What I will say is that if the story ever goes in that direction, I don’t think the way to do it is purely to give in to fans,” Stark said. “I hope, if it goes there, it’s done because that’s the right story to tell and that’s the right progression for the characters.”
Stark said he wouldn’t want to do it as “fan service,” but he also believed fans would feel satisfied if the story developed naturally in that direction. This aligns with Minear’s view that the strength of Buck and Eddie’s bond lies in its possibilities and deep connection, which has been a core part of the show for several seasons.
The Budding History Of Buck And Eddie’s Relationship
Buck and Eddie, both working at LAFD Station 118, have been best friends for years. Their loyalty to each other and Eddie’s son, Christopher, has made them a beloved duo. The speculation among some fans increased significantly in Season 7 when Buck came out as bisexual. As their friendship was shown as one of the closest on the show, some viewers began hoping for a romantic pairing.
However, Eddie has consistently been portrayed as straight. The show has highlighted Buck’s protective nature over Eddie, but it has not shown any romantic interest from Eddie’s side toward Buck. This has created a complex dynamic where one character’s identity opens a narrative door, but the other character’s established history doesn’t immediately walk through it. The “Buddie” fandom thrives on analyzing their scenes for subtext, hoping their profound friendship might evolve into something more.
How Recent Seasons Have Built The Buddie Dynamic
The show has laid significant groundwork in recent seasons that fans point to as evidence of a deeper connection. In Season 8, Buck’s boyfriend Tommy appeared jealous of Buck and Eddie’s close bond. In another moment, Buck accidentally made a Freudian slip that hinted at his feelings for Eddie while trying to deny them.
The Season 8 mid-season finale featured a major moment where Eddie told Buck he was considering moving to Texas to be closer to his son Christopher. Showrunner Tim Minear explained that this news would deeply affect Buck, touching on his long-standing abandonment issues.
“Poor Buck has got his abandonment issues going way, way back, and I think by the end of Episode 9, those abandonment issues are going to deepen further,” Minear said about Eddie’s potential move.
The Season 8 finale included weighted looks and heroic saves between the two, which many fans saw as romantic setup, though a direct conversation about feelings was postponed. The finale ended with Buck looking for his own apartment as Eddie and Christopher moved back into their house, leaving their future living situation—and relationship—unclear.
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Fan Reactions To The Slow Burn And Latest News
The “Buddie” storyline is often described by fans and critics as a “slow burn,” a long-building romantic tension between characters. Some fans express worry that the show is waiting too long to develop the relationship, which could make the eventual payoff less satisfying. Others argue that the characters’ individual journeys—Buck exploring his bisexuality and Eddie dealing with family pressure and identity—make this the perfect time for the story to move forward.
Online reactions to Minear’s recent comments are mixed. Some fans on social media understand the distinction he’s making about 9-1-1 not being a pure romance show. Others feel the years of built-up closeness between Buck and Eddie deserves a romantic conclusion. The constant analysis of their scenes shows the high level of engagement with their story.
The ninth season of 9-1-1 is currently airing. The first six episodes aired in late 2025 before the mid-season break. The show returns with new episodes starting January 8, 2026, on ABC. All previous seasons are available to stream on Hulu in the United States. For global audiences, checking local Disney+ platforms is recommended as it is the international home for 9-1-1 content.
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