With winter break right around the corner, people are preparing to travel, party and bake their favorite holiday treats. While many people find themselves busy over the holidays, there is still an abundance of people who end up trapped in their house with nothing to do. And sure, there are plenty of ways to pass time- going on walks, working out, sleeping in- but nothing beats passing time with a good show.

There are the obvious classics, like “Gilmore Girls” and “Friends,” but suppose you are looking for something new. Suppose you are looking for something that is action packed, but also brings the drama. Then it sounds like ABC’s “9-1-1” is the perfect match for you. With eight seasons and ongoing, “9-1-1” brings the viewer into the crazy life of the 118 Los Angeles Fire Department.

With each episode, there is a new plot, constantly keeping the viewer on the edge of their seat. The 118 deals with everything from fires to tsunami’s and train derailments. They have to work together to find the best solution and save as many lives as possible. The great thing about this show is that it keeps things realistic (as realistic as a drama about firefighters can be). There is not always a happy ending, and they are not always able to save everyone. It brings different emotions to the viewers, from happiness and humor to, at times, sadness.

The best part of this show is not only its interesting plot, but also its interesting characters. 9-1-1 closely follows a team of five firefighters from the 118: Bobby Nash, the captain of the 118; Evan Buckley, or Buck, who puts his life on the line no matter the situation; Eddie Diaz, a former soldier/combat medic for the Army; Howie Han, or Chimney, the medic for the 118; and Henrietta Wilson, or Hen, another medic and the partner of Chimney. 

Each character has a complex personality shaped by their unique backgrounds, which is revealed throughout each season. This distinguishes each character, and shows the viewer that they are human and have problems just like we do, resulting in a more captivating show. Although people come in and out of the show and the main character’s lives, the 118 crew remains the heart of 9-1-1 and the LAFD. Without their unique personalities, their strengths and their flaws, “9-1-1” would definitely not be the entertaining show it is today.

The best aspect about 9-1-1 is its ability to highlight both sides of prevalent issues in society. For example, it highlights the issue of police brutality, but also highlights how the police still remain an integral part of our society. This balance in the show keeps harmony within the fandom and allows it to be popular among all sorts of people, despite differing opinions.

So, if you are bored over break and like action with a side of drama, then it looks like 9-1-1 is the show for you. With its likeable characters and engrossing plot, it has captivated viewers across the nation for the past six years. It is currently on hiatus until Mar. 6, 2025, and fans are eagerly awaiting its return; so until then, bundle up with your favorite blanket, make yourself some hot chocolate, and go binge “9-1-1”!

Sources:

https://parade.com/1251026/paulettecohn/9-1-1-season-5/

https://abc.com/show/42bb0821-68c2-4543-8d0f-51ca8e7dbcf4

https://www.hulu.com/series/9-1-1-b3519825-4053-4065-b3a6-e93125fb7d54