9-1-1 star Angela Bassett recently revealed she genuinely thought her character, Sgt. Athena Grant-Nash, might be the one written out of the hit ABC drama when producers first told her a major death was coming in the show’s eighth season. Instead, it was another beloved character whose exit shocked fans and Bassett’s initial reaction was honest and personal.
In an interview, Bassett, who also serves as an executive producer on 9-1-1, recalled receiving a call from co-creator and showrunner Tim Minear about the decision to kill off a major character. When Minear told her the season would include a death, Bassett immediately wondered if it would be her. “And then there’s a pause, of course,” she said, remembering her first thought: “Is it… Athena? Is it me?!”
When she was told Athena was safe, her mind raced through the rest of the cast, trying to guess who the story would impact. Eventually, she was informed it would be Captain Bobby Nash, played by Peter Krause, who would be the one to exit the series in a dramatic twist that left fans reeling.
Bobby’s death in 9-1-1 Season 8 marked a significant moment for the show, as he had been a central figure since the series’ debut in 2018, working alongside Athena both professionally and personally.
Bassett’s reaction underscores how unpredictable and emotional the decision was for cast members, especially those deeply invested in their characters after years of working together. Her candid “Is it me?!” moment became a talking point among fans and media, highlighting both her connection to the show and the bond among the ensemble.
While 9-1-1 continues with its ninth season and explores the aftermath of Bobby’s death, Bassett remains a cornerstone of the drama, portraying Athena with strength and heart — and now with a new perspective on how storylines can truly upend expectations, even for those closest to the action behind the scenes.
