If you tuned into this week’s spring premiere of 9-1-1: Lone Star, you probably noticed the focus on the romance between Grace and Judd Ryder. It took me some time to get into this series, compared to its predecessor 9-1-1, but Grace (played by Sierra McClain) quickly became my favorite character.
I was excited to see Grace and Judd (played by Jim Parrack) finally take center stage in the latest episode, which only increased my love for the show. The writers left fans with quite the cliffhanger before the spring premiere: Grace and Judd were in a horrifying car accident, plunging into dark waters below—a nerve-wracking scenario on a show that’s known for killing off characters.
Now, let’s backtrack a bit to understand the romantic moment better.
Grace and Judd: The Setup
Judd and Grace are unique as a couple since they were already married when the series began. We’ve had glimpses of how they got together throughout the series, hinting at their deeper connection.
Judd Ryder is a firefighter with a tragic past, being the lone survivor of a devastating fire that killed his entire team. He grapples with PTSD but finds support in his empathetic wife, Grace. Grace herself is a 9-1-1 operator, deeply involved in her church, and known for her calm and understanding demeanor, which helps people through crises—including her husband. Grace is assertive and stands her ground, always fighting for what she believes is right.
The show reveals that Judd and Grace began dating after being introduced by their friend, EMS captain Tommy Vega. Before their car accident, we learn that Judd is finally ready to start a family with Grace, which adds a touch of good news amidst the tension.
Judd’s Tragic History (Spoilers Ahead!)
During the car accident, the vehicle begins to sink with Grace trapped inside. Flashbacks reveal Judd’s complex past. At twelve, Judd was in a car accident that killed his best friend Cal, a trauma he has carried for years. As a firefighter, he once encountered an older woman who screamed when she saw his name—she was Cal’s mother, who blamed Judd for her son’s death. This painful encounter set the stage for a critical moment in Judd’s life.
The Romantic Moment of the Month: Grace and Judd
Overwhelmed with guilt, Judd finds himself at the accident scene from his childhood, holding onto a “Prayer in Crisis” hotline card. He calls the number and is connected with Grace, marking their first interaction. Judd doesn’t reveal his name, so Grace calls him “John.” She asks if he thinks he was led to make the call, hinting at a deeper connection predestined by fate.
Judd, struggling to express his feelings, confesses his past mistake and encounter with Cal’s mother. Grace, in turn, encourages him to see it as an opportunity to make amends, slowly bringing him out of his despair. Her words resonate with him, and he later reveals his real name to her.
Falling in Love Over the Phone
Judd continues to call the prayer crisis hotline, speaking only to Grace. He starts making amends with Cal’s mother, Mrs. Kittner, while deepening his bond with Grace over the phone. Their conversations grow meaningful, with Judd developing romantic feelings for her. Eventually, Mrs. Kittner forgives Judd, but on the same day, Judd learns Grace no longer volunteers at the hotline, leaving him disappointed.
Grace and Judd Finally Meet
Fate brings them together in person at a bar where Judd hears Grace’s voice and recognizes her instantly. Their mutual friend Tommy introduces them, leading to another adorable meet-cute. They move past small talk to discuss fate and miracles, picking up their previous conversations right where they left off.
Judd shares the good news about Mrs. Kittner’s forgiveness and expresses how Grace changed his life. He boldly asks Grace out despite her plans to move to Georgetown for graduate school. Grace initially thinks it’s bad timing, but Judd insists they’ve already started something special.
Their Relationship
The episode reveals more about their relationship, showing them dating with the knowledge that Grace will soon leave for Georgetown. Grace’s father disapproves of Judd, thinking he’s not ambitious enough, which leads Judd to break it off, believing it’s the right thing to do. Later, they reunite at a hospital when their friend Tommy gives birth to twins. Judd learns that Grace didn’t go to Georgetown; instead, she pursued a career as a 911 operator, inspired by their phone conversations. This reconnection solidifies their relationship.
The Present Day
In the present day, after the car accident, Grace needs a miracle. While Judd sustains minor injuries, Grace is underwater for six minutes, putting her survival in doubt. Thankfully, Grace pulls through and has even more good news: she’s pregnant!
Ultimately, it’s a happy ending for Judd and Grace, proving that grace was always meant to be part of their lives.
