9-1-1 is becoming a major franchise for ABC. The same way Law and Order and One Chicago have done wonders for NBC's weekly lineup, 9-1-1 has done for its network. It's why ABC just ordered a second spinoff set in Nashville. Don't worry, though. There's more exciting news for 9-1-1 fans this week.
Variety confirmed that 9-1-1 will be staging its first ever crossover with an outside show. Instead of teaming up with, say 9-1-1: Lone Star, the first responder drama will cross paths with another Ryan Murphy helmed show, Doctor Odyssey. The crossover will take place on March 20, and see the title doctor solve a case alongside 9-1-1 stalwart Athena Grant (Angela Bassett).
9-1-1 and Doctor Odyssey will stage a crossover
This is a pretty big deal. Ryan Murphy's name is attached to several shows and spinoffs, but this is the first time we will see characters from two unrelated titles connect. The framework of Doctor Odyssey, which is based around crimes committed on different cruises, will be maintained. Grant will be one of the passengers on a cruise, and be forced to work with Max Bankman (Joshua Jackson) to determine why someone was killed during a "Casino Week."
The logline for the crossover episode confirms that Grant and Bankman will be the central focus. It's a classic two hander between two extremely different characters. It also confirms that it will be a 9-1-1 episode, despite utilizing a Doctor Odyssey template. "Enlisting Max’s help, Athena raises the stakes in a dangerous game where not everyone will end up with a winning hand.”
This is something that opens up lots of interesting possibilities within both TV franchises. Murphy's decision to bring these two together means they are set within the same universe, which opens up tons of possibility regarding future connections.
Ryan Murphy is co-creator of both shows
Dr. Bankman existing in the 9-1-1 universe means the character will be able to collaborate with any number of first responders on Doctor Odyssey. We could see the titular physician team up with Rob Lowe's Owen Strand from the recently canceled 9-1-1: Lone Star. We could also see him appear on an episode of the upcoming 9-1-1: Nashville spinoff.
The confirmation of the Nashville spinoff means the 9-1-1 franchise is now in the big leagues along network staples like Law & Order and One Chicago. It's a smart move to bring Doctor Odyssey into this burgeoning franchise, and Murphy seems to know it. We cannot wait to see how the crossover comes together.