9-1-1 Season 8: Captain Gerrard's Controversial Return - Why Fans Are Furious

The hit show 9-1-1 is back and there are some big changes that will really get viewers hooked. A new captain of Station 118 means there are going to be big moments that show viewers just what the show can offer with some surprising changes that fans should get excited about.

Captain Vincent Gerrard

Fans who have followed the show from the very beginning (2018) know that Bobby Nash has been at the heart of the series! Season 7 made a big statement by replacing Nash, and the news of a replacement came with some controversy. Viewers might have questions around Captain Vincent Gerrard who many feel is the opposite of Bobby Nash. But why?

This captain makes an entrance and the Season 8 premiere showed a bit of what this is about!

Also Read: 9-1-1: Maddie and Chimney's Postpartum Depression Story

Gerrard's Past:

Vincent Gerrard (Brian Thompson) looking serious in 9-1-1 season 2 Image

A very peculiar situation is unfolding! Captain Gerrard isn't a stranger to Station 118! Brian Thompson played him and you'll remember Gerrard. However, you probably didn't see him at the firehouse in earlier seasons as his presence was mostly featured through flashbacks. This character goes way back to Season 2, appearing through a series of flashbacks!

This makes his recent appearances in Season 8 all the more intense. What is especially memorable are some seriously problematic moments. This is why everyone at the station wasn't expecting his return.

He treated Hen (played by Aisha Hinds) incredibly poorly! The flashbacks showed he showed a serious lack of respect for his colleague. Hen's amazing work ethic and devotion wasn't fully appreciated. In fact he belittled her talents because he was prejudiced! Her peers ended up standing up and filing an official complaint, forcing his removal! This doesn't sound too great.
Chimney ( Kenneth Choi) also experienced that level of disdain! Gerrard didn't seem to accept Chimney initially as an equally capable first responder and he never seemed to gain the appreciation for how much of a fantastic first responder Chimney truly is!

Also Read: 9-1-1 Season 8 Premiere Date, Cast & Plot: Everything You Need to Know

Why Everyone Hates Gerrard

Even though he hasn't always shown up to Station 118 and was mainly present in those flashbacks, there are tons of fans who disliked this character, due to his leadership flaws that made everyone dislike his return to Season 7! Gerrard has this personality flaw. A total superiority complex, giving his character such a tone that makes everything around seem to fall into place as though everyone has no place next to this captain, so you could see why Hen and Chimney might not like him. What also doesn't help is Nash was really supportive, respectful, a strong leader who became part of the 9-1-1 family!

He was a really thoughtful leader for everyone at Station 118 and became really admired! Fans will not forget this really great captain. Therefore, seeing Gerrard's attitude, means Station 118 would really hate his presence!

Also Read: 9-1-1 Season 8: Bobby's New Path and the Future of the Show

The Future of Captain Gerrard

Gerrard (Brian Thompson) yelling at Buck (Oliver Stark) in 9-1-1 Image

If you haven't seen it! What made Season 8 premiere such an amazing episode! Buck (played by Oliver Stark) really showed the tension with Gerrard. What viewers saw made Gerrard come across as super mean. While this is occurring a blade comes loose, and he comes dangerously close to death! It’s an intense event for Gerrard which gives fans reason to pause!

The 9-1-1 universe continues! With a new set of first responders for everyone to meet, what looks to be unfolding in this show could help shape the character, particularly for Gerrard! While he did end up coming out safe in the Season 8 premiere, viewers can still feel just how difficult things will become between Buck and Gerrard. While it doesn't seem as if the animosity will immediately go away, these moments really have changed both characters, for sure, maybe leading to a whole new type of working dynamic. But not only that, it might be really worth checking out! What fans love, too. Brian Thompson discussed his time as this 9-1-1 character, feeling Gerrard might even evolve, grow, to show an amazing amount of change over time. It’s not clear how things will turn out as far as this character goes. However, Thompson seems hopeful, which adds more energy to the world!

Also Read: A Critical Analysis: Why 9-1-1 Season 7's Shorter Run Derailed the Show?

Brian Thompson's Career:

Brian Thompson has had a fantastic Hollywood career. If you haven't had a chance to see some of his great work, here are a few highlights.

The Terminator (1984)
Cobra (1986)
Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1997)
The X-Files (1998)
Various appearances across many different Star Trek films and series.

Thompson had roles in some great films! However, "9-1-1" might even stand out from the rest. Thompson revealed his appreciation of being in the series!

With such a strong legacy already created, he's hopeful to show off some new depth in his portrayal of Captain Gerrard.

While viewers are keeping a close eye out, you certainly will have an unforgettable, shocking, exciting, fun filled ride with "9-1-1 which comes out in a new season on Fox!