Los Angeles, California – Fans of the ABC first response drama “9-1-1” were left in shock after the recent episode titled “Lab Rats” aired. Veteran actor Peter Krause’s character, Captain Bobby Nash, met a tragic end after leading the show for eight seasons, leaving many viewers and co-stars like Kenneth Choi, who plays Chimney, reeling from the unexpected loss.
In a candid interview with Entertainment Weekly, Choi opened up about his initial disbelief and emotional reaction to the creative decision to kill off Captain Nash. He described feeling a range of emotions, from uncontrollable sobbing to laughter at his own response, as he grappled with the devastating plot twist.
When showrunner Tim Minear first revealed the storyline to Choi, the actor found it hard to accept, going through stages of denial and grief. Despite initially resisting the idea, Choi eventually came to understand the creative reasoning behind the character’s demise, seeing it as a pivotal moment for the show’s narrative and character development.
The episode portrays a heartbreaking scene where Captain Nash sacrifices himself to save Chim, leaving fans and crew members alike stunned by the powerful storytelling. Choi explained that the fallout from Bobby’s death will have a profound impact on the remaining characters, as they navigate their roles in a now fractured and grieving 118 crew.
As the show gears up for its return on May 1 with the episode “The Last Alarm,” the promotional material hints at a somber funeral procession, highlighting the emotional aftermath of Captain Nash’s death. Co-stars like Aisha Hinds have also paid tribute to Krause’s character, further underscoring the deep impact of his departure on the show’s dynamic.
Looking ahead, Choi emphasized that the loss of Captain Nash will continue to loom large over the characters’ actions and interactions, adding a layer of complexity to their day-to-day lives as first responders. The upcoming episodes promise to explore the aftermath of this tragic event, shedding light on how the 118 crew copes with the void left by their leader’s sacrifice.