‘As Realistic As Possible’: 9-1-1: Lone Star’s Jim Parrack Talks Bringing Real-World Experiences To Judd’s Alcoholism During Final Episodes

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In 2025, the action-packed drama “9-1-1: Lone Star” is among the shows coming to an end. The creators are pulling out all the stops for the finale episodes, making them particularly epic. Although it wasn’t revealed until after production that the series was being canceled, “Lone Star” has followed the lead of its Texas backdrop by going big or going home. Apart from the ominous atmosphere created by a meteor hurtling towards Austin, “Lone Star” has also been focusing heavily on the personal struggles and stories of its characters, such as Judd’s response to Grace embarking on a mission trip. More recently, actor Jim Parrack has shared insights about incorporating real-life experiences into his character’s storyline dealing with alcoholism.

From the very start of the series, Grace and Judd were a beloved couple, with their relationship appearing unshakeable between the dispatcher and firefighter. However, this changed when Sierra McClain, the actress playing Grace, left ahead of Season 5 due to unsuccessful contract negotiations. This departure significantly influenced the final season’s plotline, prompting writers to think creatively. Consequently, they decided to portray Judd dealing with life without his beloved partner, leading him to overwork and turn to alcohol. In an interview with Variety, Parrack explained that he didn’t want Judd’s drinking problem and relapse to unfold too quickly, stating it was important to reflect how such events transpire in reality.

As a movie enthusiast, I know well that character arcs, like great movies, aren’t made overnight. During the mid-season discussions with showrunner Rashad Raisani for 9-1-1: Lone Star, I suggested, “Why not begin hinting at potential developments now? It doesn’t have to be explicitly written in the script, but if we have group scenes, let me be secluded or seen sipping a drink more often. This way, it won’t feel out of the blue, even if we plan to resolve it by season’s end.” I believe that depicting alcoholism realistically means showing its gradual emergence, not abruptly appearing fully formed.

In the first episode of the winter season titled “All Who Wander,” spectators were given a glimpse into how deeply Judd’s alcohol addiction had taken hold. He was seen attending a group session with Owen and appeared to be doing well, having been almost a month sober. However, it became clear that Grace was not responding to his phone calls and messages, a situation that led him to drink again. This revelation underscored the fact that despite being back at the firehouse, pursuing his passion after an early retirement, Judd’s life was still far from stable without his partner by his side.

Moreover, Parrack felt it crucial to portray Judd’s alcoholism tale authentically since he has personal experience with such struggles. The former star of “True Blood” has shared his own past battles with substance abuse, which some might find challenging to depict, but he found the prospect exhilarating.

I’m an individual who struggles with alcohol addiction, but I’ve managed to achieve sobriety. I reached this milestone at the age of 22 years and two days. It wasn’t easy to get there, and even more challenging to maintain it. Nevertheless, I was eager to share my experiences, and the writers were incredibly supportive and open-minded. However, since we were working in network television, there are certain boundaries regarding content. Therefore, my main focus was ensuring that the portrayal of my situation on our show was as authentic as feasible within those constraints.

In crafting a narrative that mirrors real-life scenarios, there’s always a need for finesse in its presentation. At times, it may be portrayed exceptionally faithfully or, conversely, not at all. Nevertheless, it seems that both Jim Parrack and the writers have put meticulous effort into ensuring his storyline was as genuine as feasible.

As we approach the final two installments, it’s challenging to foresee where this storyline goes next or what actions Judd may take. Nevertheless, his progress in recovery and maintaining sobriety gives me optimism that this positive trend will persist.

Lone Star” are broadcast every Monday at 8 p.m. Eastern Time on Fox. The final episode of the series will air on February 3.

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2025-01-24 20:37