Oliver Stark applauds homophobic ‘9-1-1’ viewers.
The actor, who has played firefighter Evan “Buck” Buckley since its premiere in 2018, initially jumped on Instagram on Saturday He was grateful for the positive fan response to the end of the 100th episode of the ABC series, which featured a kissing scene between Buck and fellow firefighter Tommy Kinnard (Lou Ferrigno Jr.).
“I am humbled and overwhelmed by the positive response to Buck’s story,” the actor wrote on his Instagram Story.
“I read a lot of your messages and I couldn’t be more proud.”
He then seized the opportunity to address the backlash surrounding same-sex kissing.
“If you’re one of the small group commenting on my post about how this ruined the show, I want you to know that I really don’t care.” he wrote.
“This is a show about love and inclusion. It’s featured queer relationships from the beginning, including a beautiful black lesbian marriage played by two of the best actresses I’ve ever seen.”
“If another character discovers a new dimension to their sexuality… [realizing] His bisexuality is a deal breaker for you – I’m afraid you’re missing the whole point of the show,” he continued.
“There is no need to announce your retirement.”
The drama series, which originally aired on Fox for six seasons before moving to ABC, was created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear. It follows the lives of Los Angeles first responders, including firefighters like Buck and Tommy.
After the broadcast on Thursday, Stark told Variety Miner said she called him a few weeks ago and asked him what he thought about making his character bisexual.
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“He had already been in touch with Lou, who plays Tommy, and wanted to know he was on board before contacting me. So, without too much notice, he said, ‘This is Buck’s I think it’s the truest way to continue the story.” And I said, ‘I agree 100 percent,'” Stark said.
“I think it’s well-deserved and earned, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to pass that on.”
However, Stark’s co-star Angela Bassett said she was surprised by Stark’s on-screen kiss.
“[Buck] He’s been quite the ladies’ guy from the beginning – a wild card – so this is new and surprising for him as well.” “Black Panther” star told Variety following the show’s 100th episode.
New episodes of “9-1-1” air every Thursday at 8pm ET on ABC.
