The Shocking Truth: Is Tommy Leaving 9-1-1? 5 Key Takeaways On Lou Ferrigno Jr.'s Exit

The question of "Is Tommy leaving 9-1-1?" has been one of the most pressing concerns for fans of the hit procedural drama, especially following the intense personal storyline that developed in the most recent season. The short answer, based on the latest information available as of December 12, 2025, is yes: the character of Tommy Kinard, played by actor Lou Ferrigno Jr., has officially departed the main cast rotation following a pivotal, emotional episode in Season 8. This exit was confirmed by the actor himself, signaling a temporary, if not permanent, end to his time on the show.

The storyline that led to this departure was not a dramatic, life-or-death emergency, but a deeply personal one, focusing on the character's relationship with Evan 'Buck' Buckley. The final conversation between the two characters served as the narrative closure for Tommy's arc, leaving the door open for a potential return, but confirming his immediate absence from the ongoing narrative. This article breaks down the actor’s profile, the specific details of his exit, and what the future might hold for the beloved LAFD pilot.

Lou Ferrigno Jr.: Biography and Profile

The actor who brought the charismatic and professional Tommy Kinard to life is a well-known figure in the world of television, often recognized for his roles in other major network dramas. Louis Jude Ferrigno Jr. is an American actor, producer, and model.

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• Full Name: Louis Jude Ferrigno Jr.
• Date of Birth: November 10, 1984
• Age (as of 2025): 41 years old
• Birth Place: Santa Monica, California, United States
• Parents: Lou Ferrigno (father) and Carla Ferrigno (mother)
• Siblings: Shanna Ferrigno
• Notable Roles: Donovan Rocker in the CBS series S.W.A.T., Rex Tyler / Hourman in the DC Universe series Stargirl, and appearances in shows like How I Met Your Mother, NCIS Los Angeles, and Teen Wolf.
• Career Start: Began his career as a model before transitioning into acting.

Ferrigno Jr.'s background as the son of legendary bodybuilder and actor Lou Ferrigno (famous for playing The Hulk) has often put him in the spotlight, but he has carved out a successful career for himself, frequently playing roles that leverage his imposing physique and strong screen presence, including the highly capable Tommy Kinard on 9-1-1.

The Confirmed Exit: Details on Tommy Kinard's Departure

The speculation surrounding Tommy Kinard's status on 9-1-1 was officially settled by the actor himself. Lou Ferrigno Jr. confirmed that his time on the show had come to an end following a major relationship milestone for his character.

The Final Episode and Breakup

Tommy Kinard's departure was solidified in Season 8, Episode 6, titled "Confessions." This episode featured a crucial, definitive conversation between Tommy and Buck (Oliver Stark) that resulted in the end of their romantic relationship.

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The breakup provided the narrative closure necessary for Tommy to exit the series without a dramatic, life-threatening crisis. This type of exit is common in procedural dramas, allowing recurring characters to move on when their specific storyline purpose has been fulfilled.

Lou Ferrigno Jr.'s Confirmation

Following the airing of "Confessions," Lou Ferrigno Jr. confirmed his exit, indicating that his arc on the show had concluded. While the character was a fan-favorite, particularly for his relationship with Buck, the actor's commitment to other projects and the natural conclusion of the storyline dictated the departure.

The actor expressed his gratitude for his time on the show, which saw Tommy Kinard evolve from a former Station 118 firefighter to an LAFD pilot at Station 217, adding a new dimension to the emergency response team.

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Why The Rumors Persisted: Differentiating Tommy Kinard from Lone Star's Tommy

A significant source of confusion and persistent rumors about a "Tommy leaving" storyline stems from the existence of the spin-off series, 9-1-1: Lone Star, which features its own prominent character named Tommy.

The Two Tommys of the 9-1-1 Universe

It is crucial for fans to differentiate between the two characters, as news about one often fuels speculation about the other:

• Tommy Kinard (Main Series 9-1-1): Played by Lou Ferrigno Jr. He is an LAFD firefighter turned helicopter pilot. His exit is confirmed and tied to his breakup with Buck.
• Tommy Vega (Spin-off 9-1-1: Lone Star): Played by Gina Torres. She is the Deputy Fire Chief and a paramedic captain. Rumors about her departure have also surfaced, particularly concerning a tragic storyline in the Lone Star series finale, where the character's life was put at risk, though she ultimately survived.

The separate, but equally intense, speculation surrounding both characters named Tommy in the same franchise has created a complex web of rumors, but the exit of Lou Ferrigno Jr.'s Tommy Kinard is specific to the main 9-1-1 series.

The Future: Will Tommy Kinard Ever Return to 9-1-1?

While the immediate answer to "Is Tommy leaving 9-1-1?" is a definitive yes, the nature of his departure leaves a significant possibility for a future return. The writers of 9-1-1 are known for revisiting past characters and storylines, and the actor's comments suggest he is open to the idea.

Unanswered Questions and Open Doors

The breakup between Buck and Tommy, while providing a clear exit point, did not fully resolve all the emotional threads. The relationship was a significant development for Buck's character, and the show's creators often leverage past relationships for future dramatic effect.

The fact that Tommy's character was not killed off or written out in a way that prevents his return is a major indicator that the door remains open. He is still a capable LAFD pilot, meaning a professional crossover or a chance encounter during an emergency is always plausible.

Recurring Role Potential

Many characters on 9-1-1, even those who were once main or recurring, transition into a "guest star" status, appearing only when the plot demands it. Tommy Kinard could easily fall into this category, similar to how other beloved characters have appeared sporadically in later seasons.

Lou Ferrigno Jr. has expressed a willingness to return, stating that the show has a tendency to revisit unanswered questions. Should the storyline for Buck or the needs of the LAFD pilot unit require it, Tommy Kinard could certainly make a dramatic reappearance in a future season, whether Season 9 or beyond. For now, however, fans will have to say goodbye to the character as a regular fixture of the 118's orbit.