The emergency service first responders from L.A. are back in Fox-turned-ABC's 9-1-1 Season 8, facing new emergencies and putting themselves in dangerous situations. Created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Tim Minear, 9-1-1 premiered in 2018 and focuses on police officers, paramedics, firefighters, and dispatchers handling emergencies.
9-1-1 is praised for highlighting the fast-paced and intense situations faced by the first respondents as they encounter daily dangers like fire and crimes. While the show majorly focuses on its key figures like Athena Grant (Angela Bassett), Henrietta "Hen" Wilson (Aisha Hinds), Bobby Nash (Peter Krause), and others, it's also known for its recurring actors.
One of them is undeniably Lou Ferrigno's son, Louis Ferrigno Jr., who plays Tommy Kinard in 9-1-1. He was first introduced to fans in season 2 and was believed to be one of the coldest figures, especially with the new firefighters.
Exploring Louis Ferrigno Jr.'s role as Tommy Kinard in ABC's 9-1-1
Louis Ferrigno Jr., as Tommy Kinard, might be a recurring actor, but he's among the most memorable ones. He began as an ice-cold personality at the 118 station, and many didn't expect him to change anytime soon.
However, a gas explosion resulted in a drastic change in Tommy's personality as he wouldn't be alive if another firefighter named Chimney hadn't saved him. Despite a lesser screen time in 9-1-1, Louis Ferrigno Jr.'s role is still commended for the character development and positive change in Tommy.
Season 2, Episode 16 marked Tommy's transfer to Station 217, but his colleagues ensured a memorable farewell party before he took on his role at the new station. The same season marked the end of Tommy Kinrad's story in the first-responder procedural until his return in season 7 as an LAFD pilot.
Louis Ferrigno Jr. talked about returning to 9-1-1 in season 7
9-1-1 Season 7 surprised fans with the return of Louis Ferrigno Jr. as Tommy, who proudly identified as gay. As the story progressed, it was revealed that Tommy had feelings for Oliver Stark's Evan “Buck” Buckley. Co-creator Tim Minear created a new story for Tommy's romantic relationship with Buck.
Their relationship began after Tommy showed up for a rescue mission, and they gradually discovered a mutual attraction. While talking about his role in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the actor said:
"[Minear] laid out the arc, and it was a really, really cool situation, and I agreed to it."
Ferrigno was previously offered similar roles, but he didn't accept them. However, when it came to the first-responder procedural, he grabbed it as a rare chance to explore a deep relationship between two characters. He said:
"It just goes beyond labels. It goes beyond names, groups, orientations. It’s two connected souls, and that’s what I wanted to achieve."
While Tommy was sure about his feelings, Buck was still confused and had doubts about their relationship. The two even shared a kiss and planned a date, but Buck didn't seem to have fully understood his feelings.
While talking about Tommy seizing the opportunity to get Buck's attention, the actor explained Tommy's constant struggles and tough life and called him the "coolest guy" who succeeded in making a perfect moment with Buck.
Lou Ferrigno last appeared in Season 7 episode 6 titled There Goes the Groom, in which he joined Buck as his date on his sister's wedding ceremony. His character played a vital role in Buck's journey to self-discovery and embracing his identity.
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