911 just opted for a shocking character death. Now the question is how this will affect the 118 and beyond!
Caution: This article contains SPOILERS for 911 Season 8, episode 15, “Lab Rats”
911 is no stranger to huge events that put the lives of the characters in danger. Yet, amazingly, they have gone eight seasons without killing off a major character. Sadly, that streak ended with “Lab Rats.”
This thrilling conclusion to a two-parter had most of the squad trapped in a bio-lab after a renegade scientist (Bridget Regan) set off a fire while stealing a deadly virus she hoped to sell and then become famous for “developing” the cure for it.
While Chimney was exposed to the virus, Athena and Buck raced to find that scientist for the antidote. It was touch and go, but in the end, they succeeded; Chimney was saved, an injured Hen raced out, and all seemed right…
And then Bobby sealed himself off in the lab as he’d been exposed when his oxygen hose was torn. Knowing there was only one dose of the cure, Bobby let Chimney have it. He and Athena exchanged tearful farewells before Bobby succumbed to the virus.
Thus, the heart and soul of 911 is dead and the question becomes how will each of the characters react to this stunning loss?
Athena
Obviously, Athena will be hit the hardest of all. Seeing this proud and strong cop breaking into tears watching her husband die was heartrending and the previews for Bobby’s funeral show her raging at the world. Athena has been through loss before, but nothing like this, even as she has to be strong for their family.
How she goes on is a question. Athena may try to throw herself too much into police work to avoid her grief, which can cause some mistakes. One can’t help but wonder if this is a way to write Angela Bassett off the show with Athena deciding she can’t stay in L.A. and leave. However it unfolds, Athena will never be the same after Bobby’s death, which is something viewers can understand.
Buck
As Bobby’s protegee and friend, Buck will be affected badly. The fact he was one of the last to talk to Bobby will overshadow him and carry Bobby’s words on taking care of everyone else. It’s hinted that Buck will be haunted by Bobby’s words, trying to figure them out, and if they were meant for Bobby thinking Buck could take over the 118 or at least care for his family.
Buck has been through a lot himself on the show and has come through it okay. But the death of his mentor will be his biggest test yet, and Buck will have to step things up. This loss may lead to more growth for Buck, although he’d wish it had happened under much different circumstances.
Chimney and Maddie
Chimney is going to be wracked with guilt over Bobby’s death. He’ll be angry at Bobby for choosing to save Chimney without even letting the man know Bobby was also infected. Chimney would have flipped it around to save Bobby but was never given the chance and that anger may cloud Chimney’s judgement and grieving in 911. He'll also need to be reminded that it was Bobby's choice to sacrifice himself for Chimney and has to be worthy of that.
Maddie will be at her husband’s side, her own near-death experience giving her some clarity on sacrifice and what’s important. An obvious idea is that Maddie may decide to name her soon to be born son after Bobby, a worthy tribute. Before that, Maddie’s biggest call yet is going to be helping make sure Chimney’s anger and grief don’t overwhelm him.
Hen
Having come close to death in this same adventure, Hen will be recovering as well as mourning Bobby. She’ll need help from her wife and kids, and her strength and spirit should help the team move on. Hen can take more of a leadership role and be supportive of the group.
Her own memories of Bobby will hang over her and affect her like the rest of the squad. If anyone has the ability to help the 118 overcome this tragedy, it’s Hen.
Eddie
Talk about an awful homecoming. Eddie has been living in Texas, trying to reconnect with his son and move on with his life. It looked like Eddie decided he couldn’t stay away from L.A. and was seen heading off with his son and the idea he’d return to L.A. Sadly, it’d be for Bobby’s funeral.
Eddie will likely wonder that had he been there, things might have turned out different for Bobby. He’ll also feel guilty about leaving the team in the lurch, and this can push him to rejoin the 118. It’s too bad it’s under such circumstances as Eddie will be shaken at not being there for Bobby’s last mission.
The loss of Bobby is the biggest moment ever for 911 and it’s no wonder the characters will be reeling as much as the audience trying to go on without him.
911 season 8 returns Thursday May 1 at 8/7c on ABC.