9-1-1’s Cut Love Triangle Changed the Show’s Dynamic for the Better

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heads up: spoilers for episode 18 of season 8 of 9-1-1; a love triangle between Buck, Abby, and Bobby could have significantly altered the characters’ paths. In contrast to previous seasons, most romantic problems in this season stem from external factors that greatly affected established relationships. For example, Bobby’s death in 9-1-1 had profound consequences not only for Athena but also for almost everyone else on the 118 team.

In an Instagram clip shared by TVLine, Oliver Stark, who plays Buck on the show, mentioned that during the early stages of 9-1-1, there was a plan to introduce a plotline where Bobby might have developed feelings for Abby while she was still involved with Buck. This type of romantic conflict isn’t uncommon in Ryan Murphy’s TV productions, but it almost became part of the first season’s narrative.

Let me take a trip down memory lane. Don’t you recall from season 1, when I was lying in a hospital bed due to a 9-1-1 incident? Abby (played by Connie Britton) was with me then, and tragically, Bobby Nash entered the scene. The initial idea was that there would be a love triangle unfolding, but my emotions at the time were vehemently against it. I remember thinking, “No, what do you mean? No, that’s Buck and Abby. It can’t be.” I’m relieved that things never progressed in that direction, as I was strongly opposed to it.

What The Buck-Abby-Bobby Triangle Would Have Meant For 9-1-1

It Could Have Changed The Entire Dynamic Between Buck And Bobby

In the TV series 9-1-1, Athena’s performance hasn’t significantly faltered following Bobby’s demise. She continues to work diligently, helping to prevent former suspects from repeating mistakes that initially led them into difficult situations. However, if Bobby had been able to continue his love triangle with Buck, the dynamic between Athena and Bobby might have never developed at all. It just so happened that Connie Britton portrayed Abby for only one regular season, but the potential impact of a romantic rivalry between Buck and Bobby on their relationship remains significant regardless of her tenure on the show.

Just as Chimney articulates in the finale of 9-1-1’s eighth season, the number 118 symbolizes so much more than just a simple figure. In fact, even in the first season, there were tensions between Chimney and Bobby, with Bobby expressing concerns about Chimney’s romantic relationships, believing he deserved better. This is reminiscent of the sixth episode “Heartbreaker,” where it’s evident that Bobby felt Abby was worthy of something more than Buck. This plotline, had it followed its initial script, would have made less sense in terms of their professional relationship if it started on a discordant note like this. But the enduring respect that Buck has for Bobby makes perfect sense given their history and camaraderie.

Our Take On The Scrapped 9-1-1 Love Triangle

Cutting The Storyline Was Best For All Characters Involved

Since she departed during the first season, introducing a love triangle with Abby wouldn’t have significantly altered her storyline. However, as Bobby evolved into a sort of firehouse leader over time, it was beneficial for the show 9-1-1 to maintain his reputation intact. Bobby wasn’t wrong for recognizing that Buck and Abby had different aspirations initially. This decision not only protected their relationship but also safeguarded Bobby’s moral standing. The preservation of such integrity was more valuable than the addition of a sensational romantic subplot.

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2025-05-17 17:49