The dedicated fans of 9-1-1: Lone Star were recently hit with news that Grace Ryder, the beloved 911 dispatcher, portrayed by Sierra McClain, would not be returning for the show’s fifth and final season. This announcement immediately sparked concern about the future of her husband, firefighter Judson “Judd” Ryder, played by Jim Parrack. The question on everyone’s mind: Is Judd leaving 9-1-1: Lone Star?
While 9-1-1: Lone Star is indeed concluding with Season 5 after its cancellation by FOX in August 2024, the question of Judd’s departure is more nuanced than a simple exit due to the series ending. Recent events within the show have fueled speculation about whether Judd Ryder might be leaving Station 126 even before the final curtain call.
In the Season 4 finale, a pivotal moment occurred that significantly impacted Judd’s role. He made the weighty decision to resign from his firefighter position at Station 126. This resignation was driven by a deeply personal reason: to become the primary caregiver for his son, Wyatt. Wyatt had suffered a tragic accident, being struck by a car while riding his bike, resulting in paralysis from the waist down. Judd, a character who holds the distinction of being the sole survivor of the original 126 squad and a vital part of the new team under Owen Strand (Rob Lowe), made this sacrifice for his family.
Judd on 9-1-1 lone star
Actor Jim Parrack portraying Judd Ryder in a scene from 9-1-1 Lone Star, contemplating his future after resigning from Station 126 to care for his son Wyatt.
Adding to the complexity of Judd’s situation is the departure of his wife, Grace. In the Season 5 premiere, it was revealed that Grace had left Austin, Texas, to dedicate her time to Mercy Ships, a charitable organization providing essential surgeries globally. This decision, while driven by Grace’s faith and desire to help others, leaves Judd in Austin to care for their daughter, Charlie, and Wyatt, without his partner. Judd poignantly describes Grace’s conviction: “She knew it was inconvenient. She knew that it was terrible timing. But she felt the touch of God. I can still see her face that day. Her eyes were shining with tears. Not just tears — this fire, too, you know? And I never loved her more than I did in that moment.”
Despite these significant life changes, showrunner Rashad Raisani has confirmed that Judd’s story is far from over. In an interview with TV Line, Raisani assured viewers that Judd will remain a central figure in 9-1-1: Lone Star Season 5. His storyline will delve into the profound impact of losing his job, his wife’s physical presence, and the challenges faced by his son. Raisani explained, “Judd doesn’t have his job, he doesn’t have his son and now he doesn’t have his wife, so it puts him into a deeper place of isolation.” This isolation, however, will serve as a catalyst for growth and exploration of Judd’s character. Raisani hinted at the intricate emotional journey ahead for Judd, stating, “You’ll see as the season goes on that it creates this great complexity for Judd. On one hand, he admires and loves his wife, but there will be a growing sense of frustration and some uncomfortable feelings he has that he doesn’t want to admit to himself that start to come out.”
Intriguingly, Raisani also suggested that Grace’s absence might open up new opportunities for Judd, drawing a parallel to Wyatt potentially filling Grace’s role at the 911 call center. He remarked, “I have often found that out of great crisis comes great opportunity,” indicating a possible career shift or unexpected path for Judd.
Furthermore, in a conversation with Variety, Raisani clarified that Judd and Grace’s relationship remains intact despite the distance and Grace’s commitment to Mercy Ships. He emphasized the creative challenge of explaining Grace’s absence in a way that respected the characters and the audience, avoiding storylines like killing her off or a divorce, which would feel disingenuous. Raisani believes they successfully navigated this challenge, turning Grace’s departure into a pivotal element of Judd’s narrative arc throughout Season 5. “We also made that loss of our show Judd’s story and I think that ended up leading to a very beautiful arc that takes us through our entire fifth season, especially for Judd. I like to think that we at least found a tiny silver lining out of that big loss.”
In conclusion, while Judd Ryder has resigned from his firefighting position and is facing significant personal challenges with Grace’s absence and Wyatt’s condition, he is not leaving 9-1-1: Lone Star. Instead, Season 5 promises a compelling and emotional storyline for Judd, exploring themes of loss, isolation, and the potential for unexpected opportunities amidst adversity. Fans can expect to see Judd navigate these complexities as a central character in the show’s final season.
Watch 9-1-1: Lone Star on Hulu to follow Judd’s journey.
