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Actor Oliver Stark, best known from the hit show “911”, made headlines recently with a steamy on-screen kiss with another male character. Known for his portrayal of compassionate firefighter Buck, Stark’s storyline took a twist in “911 eternities” when Buck discovered a new facet of his sexuality, coming out as bisexual. Not only did it provide an exciting turn for the series but also added another much-needed representation of bisexuality on mainstream television.
Born in London on June 27th, 1991, Stark has been a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ representation. So this storyline is close to his heart, which he affirmed with an assertive Instagram post after the episode aired. He expressed his overwhelming pride over the positive reaction to his character’s development and unabashedly asserted the show’s core values of love and inclusivity.
He wrote, “Humbled and overwhelmed by the positive reaction to Buck’s storyline. I’ve read so many of your messages and I couldn’t be prouder.
If you are one of the smaller group of people commenting on my posts about how this has ruined the show. I would like you to know that I truly don’t care. This is a show about love and inclusion. It’s featured queer relationships from the very beginning including a beautiful Black lesbian marriage played out by two of the best actresses I’ve ever watched.
If one other character finding a new facet to his sexuality and realising his bisexuality is your deal breaker – I fear you’ve missed the entire point of the show. You are not required to announce your departure.”
Related: Buck and Tommy’s Big Gay Kiss on ABC’s ‘911’
Stark’s fearless stand was a bold move against a fraction of viewers who criticized the evolution of his character’s sexuality. With biting sarcasm, he made it clear that anyone uncomfortable with the storyline wasn’t obliged to stick around, embodying the assertiveness many in the LGBTQ+ community have to summon in their daily lives.
In real life, Oliver has been in a happy relationship with his girlfriend, Hannah Gottesman, since 2015. However, his empathetic portrayal of a queer character, along with his fearless acknowledgment and support of LGBTQ+ representation, ensures that his star keeps shining brighter in our community’s sky. Oliver’s latest stand is a reminder of how representation in media can play a vital role in reinforcing inclusivity and acceptance, proving that love – in all its forms – must and will always reign supreme.
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