9-1-1 Season 8 Episode 17 Preview: Don’t Drink the Water
An earthquake causes a series of events that lead to a potential environmental disaster on 9-1-1 Season 8 Episode 17, “Don’t Drink the Water.”
None of the season’s penultimate episode’s promotional material reveals whether that earthquake will happen on screen. Nevertheless, the 118 will respond to unusual fires, like residents calling dispatch to say that water is on fire. Perhaps that’s why Maddie and Josh (Welcome back, Josh!) look so stressed.
The promo video shows that there is methane in LA’s water line, creating jumping flames that turn whatever they inhabit into a tinder box. It also teases conversations around the 118’s next captain after Bobby Nash was put to rest on 9-1-1 Season 8 Episode 16, “The Last Alarm.”
Gerrard is still running point on “Don’t Drink the Water.” He even appears to have a one-on-one conversation with Buck in the station’s kitchen. By the way, who could’ve known that seeing an overflowing refrigerator would be heartbreaking? It’s surreal that Bobby isn’t there, let alone not there to cook for them anymore.
Thankfully, it seems like 9-1-1 will continue to grieve the character as everyone tries to discover their new normal and what’s next for them.
For Hen, that next chapter may include becoming captain, but the promo video suggests that Hen may not want the job. That stance aligns with other conversations between Hen and Karen about being present for their family. But, according to Athena, “The best thing for the 118 would be you as captain.”
It may be wishful thinking, but hopefully, all of these discussions about the future could mean good things for Eddie Diaz. The one photo he’s in shows him with Hen. While that could be Hen turning to her friends about the captaincy or a casual catch-up between friends, it could also be about Eddie moving back.
Who knows? It’s only that with Bobby gone and the season wrapping up, it would be nice to see 9-1-1 reunite the remaining members of the 118 family.
Here’s everything you need to know about this episode, including the air date, cast, promo, and how to watch.
9-1-1 Season 8 Episode 17 Details
- Title: “Don’t Drink the Water”
- Air Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
- Time: 8/7c
- Network: ABC
How to Watch 9-1-1 Season 8 Episode 17
- Live: ABC at 8/7c
- Streaming: Available next day on Hulu
9-1-1 Season 8 Episode 17 Description
Following an earthquake, the 118 races to the scene of several unusual fires and must figure out their cause before anyone else is hurt. Meanwhile, as everyone settles into their new normal, they try to move forward and plan for the future.
Guest Stars & Returning Characters
- Main Cast: Angela Bassett, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Oliver Stark, Kenneth Choi, Aisha Hinds, Ryan Guzman, and Gavin McHugh
- Guest Stars: Tracie Thoms, Anirudh Pisharody, Corinne Massiah, Elijah M. Cooper, Brian Thompson, Bailey Leung, and Declan Pratt
- Notable Returns: Bryan Safi
Promo & Photos
Check out the photos from 9-1-1 Season 8 Episode 17:
Promo Video:
What are your hopes for this episode of 9-1-1? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below, and be sure to catch up with our review of 9-1-1 Season 8 Episode 16, “The Last Alarm,” right here.
9-1-1 airs Thursdays at 8/7c on ABC.
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Shelby Elpers
Shelby is a TV enthusiast and pop culture writer. She's an avid podcast listener, green tea drinker, and soccer fan. Her brand can be summarized in rom-coms, superheroes, teen dramas, and workplace comedies.