Sacrifice or setup? Peter Krause’s shocking exit from 9-1-1 explained

Fans of 9-1-1 were left shocked when Peter Krause’s beloved character, LAFD Captain Robert “Bobby” Nash, was killed off in the show’s 17 April episode titled Lab Rats.

But Peter Krause’s journey on the hit series isn’t quite over yet. Although Bobby’s death marks a major turning point, viewers can expect to see Peter Krause back on screen before the season ends.

In an interview with Variety, showrunner Tim Minear confirmed that episode 15 is not Peter Krause’s final appearance this season.

“It’s not like Bobby dies and then everyone just goes about their day,” Minear said. He explained that the final three episodes of season eight will focus on the impact of Bobby’s death on the rest of the team.

While there will still be action and drama, the emotional aftermath will play a big part in the storyline.

Minear spoke about why the decision was made to kill off Peter Krause’s character. He said after eight years, the show needed to take a bold step to keep the stories fresh and meaningful.

“If we want people to believe there are real stakes, someone has to die,” he said. When asked why it had to be Bobby, Minear explained that it made the most sense.

“If you look at Bobby’s past, his journey of seeking forgiveness after tragedy, his death completes his story in a meaningful way,” he added.

He also said he didn’t want to make a small or forgettable choice. Killing off Bobby affects every character deeply, something that wouldn’t have happened with any other character.

Peter Krause, who has played Bobby since the show began in 2018, also shared his thoughts. “I know many fans are upset, and they have every right to be. It is a loss,” Peter Krause said in a statement. “But Bobby Nash was written in sacrifice. He was built for this moment.”

Peter Krause went on to say that Bobby’s death honours real-life first responders who put their lives at risk daily. “His story reflects their courage. Everyone at 9-1-1 salutes the brave men and women who protect us.”

Although Bobby Nash is gone, Peter Krause’s time on 9-1-1 isn’t finished just yet. Fans can look forward to one more appearance as the season comes to a dramatic close.