9-1-1season 9 marks the beginning of a new era for ABC’s beloved first-responder drama, but the overdue return of one character could further complicate things. Since its 2018 premiere, the tight-knit group of LAFD Station 118 has been a beloved found family helmed by Peter Krause’s Captain Nash. Sadly, Bobby became9-1-1’s most tragic deathin season 8.
Months after his fateful final episode, many9-1-1viewers still miss Bobbyand actively express doubt regarding the procedural’s future. Furthermore, the 118 itself is in a state of purgatory after losing its leader and de facto father figure. Though Bobby’s death still stings,9-1-1season 9proves the show must go on— but it could take another shocking turn.
Corinne Massiah Joining 9-1-1 Season 9’s Cast Means May Could Return To Dispatch
On the bright side, losing a main character made room for the promotion of underutilized cast members. Case in point,Corinne Massiah and Elijah M. Cooper will be series regulars in9-1-1season 9, reprising their roles as May and Harry Grant. While they might simply support their grieving mother— Angela Bassett’s Athena Grant— May left unfinished business at dispatch.
First working alongside Jennifer Love Hewitt’s character before fully taking over duringMaddie’s break in9-1-1season 5,May quickly became a beloved member of the LA Dispatch Center. Though she gave up her blossoming career to attend college, her post-grad return in9-1-1season 9 means May could reclaim her spot as a young but extremely accomplished emergency dispatcher.
May’s Presence Could Inspire A Big Career Move For Maddie
If May does return to her post as a9-1-1operator, it would give Maddie the perfect exit opportunity. After a gnarlynear-death experience in9-1-1season 8 nearly cost Maddie her life, her voice, and her second child, it might be time for the longtime dispatcher to let the next generation’s voice of9-1-1take up the mantle.
There is already a clear set-up forcareer changes in9-1-1season 9, from Athena potentially retiring to Howard “Chimney” Han (Kenneth Choi) succeeding Bobby as the 118’s captain. Should Maddie decide to walk away from dispatch, her past as an ER nurse would offer the perfect next step for her character.
Maddie Returning To Medical Care Would Fundamentally Change 9-1-1
Maddie becoming a nurse again wouldn’t simply be a logical development; it would breathe new life into9-1-1by incorporating emergency room medical professionals. There have been glimpses of doctors and nurses throughout the series, butadding medical drama elements to9-1-1would strengthen the series and prevent stale storylines ahead of its possible milestone season 10.
Having a physical hub for medical storylines would also make the9-1-1universe feel more cohesive and well-rounded. Between its high-octane firefighting and thrilling detective work, the invaluable healthcare professionals— from EMTs/paramedics to surgeons— often get lost amidst the chaos. Undoubtedly, Maddie leaving dispatch would be a big risk, but9-1-1would potentially reap unimaginable rewards.
