'It's 2024': Internet backs Oliver Stark after '9-1-1' star claps back at trolls criticizing his character's sexuality

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Oliver Stark is sharing his thoughts on the polarizing reaction the latest episode of the ABC series ‘9-1-1’ received because of a romantic subplot.

The procedural drama, which is currently in its seventh season, recently showed Stark’s character Ethan Buckley, aka Buck embracing his bisexuality.

After the episode titled ‘Buck, Bothered and Bewildered’ aired, fans were left divided in their opinions. While a section of admirers welcomed the development, the other faction was critical and called out the show.

However, Stark took it upon himself to address the fans - both groups - and expressed his views on the division.

Oliver Stark shares his opinion

Taking to his Instagram Story, Stark wrote in a long post, “Humbled and overwhelmed by the positive reaction to Buck’s storyline," per Entertainment Weekly.

Addressing the supporters first, he wrote, “I’ve read so many of your messages and I couldn’t be prouder.”

He then addressed the detractors and said, “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 continued, “This is a show about love and inclusion. It’s featured queer relationships from the very beginning including a beautiful Black lesbian marriage played out by two of the best actresses I’ve ever watched.”

“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,” continued Stark before adding, "You are not required to announce your departure.”

The latest episode surprised many fans when it showed an unexpected kiss between Buck and former 118er Tommy (Lou Ferigno Jr). 

Stark even addressed the storyline’s recent development during an interview with Entertainment Weekly when he said that the show has always hinted at queer love ever since its inception.

The 32-year-old star said, “I think it's been seasons and seasons in the making, so it's really nice to see it officially come to fruition,” before adding, “I think the crumbs have been there. Maybe on one hand in quite obvious ways, but on the other hand, in less obvious ways.”

Oliver Stark gets support from the Internet

Oliver Stark's message to his detractors gained him overwhelming support from fans who not only supported him but also reiterated that the show has always propounded the theory of multiple shades of life.

One of the social media users said, "Ridiculous, it’s not the character’s s**uality shift wasn’t out of the blue, there’s literally breadcrumbs from season one to now ☠️."

Someone else chimed in, "The biphobia from both straight and gay people needs to be stopped..."

"No clue what this show is or who this man is but i'm a stan now," said another smitten fan.

Someone else shared their reaction following the scene, "The way i felt them about to kiss and jumped when it happened omfg ABC ate with that ! 😭."

Someone else quizzed, "It's 2024 and people still hate on queer community ?"

"The bi revolution is here yaaaay," cheered another social media user.

"They are not required to announce their departure," declared a fan who did not favor the trolls' words.

"Oliver Stark hit the nail on the head! It’s all about love and acceptance here," explained a fan.

Someone else said, "Oliver Stark’s response is spot on. It’s about embracing love and diversity, not getting hung up on a character’s journey. Those who can’t see that miss the heart of the show. 👏."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.