9-1-1 Season 7 Episode 1, “Abandon Ships,” returns with a bang in a new home. Not a moment too soon, the 118 is back in force with silly stakes and sweet character drama. There’s a lot to love about this dramatic return and the return of the 118. Even in the first of the three-episode premiere, it’s clear that this crew is ready for more chaos than they’ve ever seen before. Evidently, the stories this season are just getting started.
Immediately, it’s clear that the series understands so well why Athena (Angela Bassett) and Bobby (Peter Krause) are that couple. This relationship has always been the emotional core of the series. It’s nice to see that this dynamic has translated now that the series has moved networks. In the past, these two haven’t been given nearly the time that they deserve on-screen. Already, they’re being given a chance to be honest with each other and work on their relationship which is endearing to see.
What works about both Athena and Bobby’s stories is that they’re both allowed to be fully human. These characters have each been through so much. It would be so easy to centre their relationship on trauma, or on the flipside to show them as perfect saints. However, the fact that the story allows them each to begin working through their own insecurities is as sweet as it is earnest. They’re clearly just at the beginning of a new chapter of their epic love story. If there’s chaos on a cruise ship, so be it.
9-1-1 Season 7 Episode 1, “Abandon Ships,” also gives Hen (Aisha Hinds) a chance to showcase her leadership abilities. As a general rule, this writer doesn’t love when the 118 is separated. However, the fact that this episode has Hen leading the remaining members of the 118 makes for a compelling character study. Every time this character gets a chance to prove what a strong leader she is, it makes her more endearing.
Overall, the premiere episode does an excellent job of navigating the network move and highlighting what has always made this series so lovable. The showrunners clearly take care to maintain the integrity of these characters and their stories while leaving doors open for new possibilities. Including a callback to one of the 118’s most memorable cases demonstrates the care taken to ensure continuity.
Finally, in many ways, this start of a three-episode arc feels like vintage 9-1-1. The wild stakes and deeply emotional character-driven drama are what have always made this series magnetic. Pirates on a cruise ship that’s about to sink (from the previews) is a deeply unserious premise that has so much to love. Bringing back two people from one of the 118’s most compelling cases is just an added bonus.
9-1-1 is back in force and just as chaotic as it has always been. It feels like these characters have been away for far too long. This kick-off is exactly what the series needs. Of course, this is just the beginning of this particular narrative. Things can only get better from here. The 118 has a lot that’s coming to them.
9-1-1 airs Thursdays at 8/7c on ABC.