“Buck Begins” is the episode we’ve been waiting for since the beginning of 9-1-1. This show always does backstories well, and we’ve learned the history of almost every other character. This week we had a whole hour dedicated to Evan Buckley, and we were not disappointed.
Last week we learned that Buck and Maddie had a brother who died from leukemia. Buck never knew about him because Maddie and their parents kept it a secret from him. And Buck was born to be a bone marrow donor. Buck’s parents do love him, but could you imagine knowing you only exist because your brother was dying? We definitely understand why Buck was upset.
We loved seeing younger Buck. He was a clumsy kid, always getting into bike accidents, and he even fell out of a tree. He thought he had to do all of those things to get his parents’ attention. But Maddie was always there for him especially when he desperately needed to get away from their parents. She saved him by giving him her jeep so he could have a fresh start.
We loved hearing about all of the odd-jobs he took trying to find his passion. It took several jobs in several states (including a brief stint with the Seals) before figuring out that being a firefighter is what he was always meant to be. We liked how Buck kept in touch with Maddie by sending her postcards and keeping her up to date with his life. We just wish she had been able to go with Buck and escape her violent husband. We’re glad Buck found his way to the 118 because this group wouldn’t be complete without him.
While we were treated to flashbacks in “Buck Begins”, Buck and the rest of the 118 were called to a dangerous fire. Buck, as usual, played the hero and defied the odds to rescue a man trapped in the fire. He definitely wouldn’t have survived if it wasn’t for Buck.
In the end, Buck forgave his parents and Maddie. We understand why he had a hard time forgiving Maddie. She was the one who Buck counted on the most, and he felt like she betrayed him. But their parents put Maddie in a terrible position, and she just wanted to protect him. We hope that these two can move past this and start to heal. Their relationship is one of our favorites, and we don’t want anything to happen to the Buckley siblings!
Other Thoughts:
- Oliver Stark was amazing in this episode. We felt the pain and suffering Buck went through during his childhood and the love he has for his sister.
- The 118 is Buck’s family. They’re the ones who have stuck by him through everything. They’re lucky to have each other.
- Athena was right: Buck never gives up. And we hope he never stops being Buck.
“I’m sure whomever you saved is glad you were being Buck.” “You never give up. That’s what being Buck means to me. But whatever you do, don’t stop.”
Agree? Disagree? What did you think about “Buck Begins”?
9-1-1 airs Mondays at 8/7c on FOX.
