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Oliver Stark is clapping back at homophobic “9-1-1” viewers.
The actor, who portrays firefighter Evan “Buck” Buckley in the series since its debut in 2018, took to Instagram initially on Saturday to express gratitude to his fans for their positive response to the 100th episode of the ABC show. This episode showcased a kiss between Buck and fellow firefighter Tommy Kinard (Lou Ferrigno Jr.).
“Humbled and overwhelmed by the positive reaction to Buck’s storyline,” the actor wrote on his Instagram Stories.
“I’ve read so many of your messages and I couldn’t be prouder.”
He then took an opportunity to address the backlash surrounding the same-sex kiss.
In his post, he addressed a smaller group of individuals who criticized the episode, stating, “If you are one of the smaller group of people commenting on my posts about how this has ruined the show, I would like you to know that I truly don’t care.”
He emphasized that the show revolves around themes of love and inclusivity. Right from the start, it has portrayed queer relationships, such as a Black lesbian marriage enacted by two talented actresses.
“If one other character finding a new facet to his sexuality and [realizing] his bisexuality is your deal breaker — I fear you’ve missed the entire point of the show,” he continued.
“You are not required to announce your departure.”
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 Thursday’s episode, Stark told Variety that Minear called him several weeks ago to ask how he’d feel about making his character bisexual.
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“He had already been in contact with Lou, who plays Tommy — he wanted to know that he was on board before bringing it to me. So not with too much notice he said, ‘I think this is the most truthful way to continue Buck’s storyline.’ And I said, ‘I 100% agree,’” Stark said.
“I think it’s deserved and I think it’s earned — and I am excited to to get the chance to tell it.”
Stark’s co-star Angela Bassett, however, said she was surprised by his onscreen kiss.
“[Buck] was quite the ladies’ man from the beginning — the wild card — so this is something new and surprising for him as well,” the “Black Panther” star told Variety following the show’s 100th episode.
New episodes of “9-1-1” air Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
