9-1-1 season 4 hasn't started production yet, and it is not expected to premiere until next year on Fox. Despite the delays, the series has been sharing updates as to what viewers can expect in the upcoming installment. Recently, it was confirmed that a recurring character is promoted as a series regular.
According to a report from Variety, John Harlan Kim will be a series regular in 9-1-1 season 4. The actor plays the role of Albert Kim, the younger half-brother of Chimney (Kenneth Choi). Albert is well-suited in the evolution of Chimney moving forward in the new installment.
The two have never met until Albert showed up on Chimney's house from Korea. Their relationship will be further explored now that Kim's character will appear regularly. Also, he could be an essential part of fleshing out Chimney and Maddie's (Jennifer Love Hewitt) romance.
In the season 3 finale, it was revealed that Maddie is pregnant with Chimney's child. Their situation could evolve in an interesting way and Albert might be involved in the storyline. Since he'll be around most of the time, Maddie and Chimney's relationship might get a little bit complicated.
As for other stories worth-exploring in 9-1-1 season 4, the series may explore other timely topics, such as what's happening in the real world -- particularly the pandemic. There's a huge chance the show would take on the global health crisis, given that first responders are considered in the frontlines.
Meanwhile, it seems like 9-1-1: Lone Star crossovers could happen at some point. In a previous interview with Deadline, showrunner Tim Minear confirmed that there's going to be crossovers and he has ideas on how to "cross-pollinate things."
Crossovers have proven to be huge success stories. It allows a series to do cross-show pairings, leading to building-up interesting relationships. We could expect 9-1-1: Lone Star to deliver big stories moving forward since it is now an established series on Fox.
9-1-1 season 4 hasn't kicked off filming as of yet and there's no clear indication when production could begin. A lot of things should be considered first as the real-life health crisis makes it difficult for the series to start everything up.
Cast and crew need to follow certain health measures and protocols to ensure their safety on set. The new season may look a bit different once it premieres. Some scenes might be reduced to accommodate the guidelines, especially in following the proper social distancing measures.
9-1-1 season 4 is expected to arrive sometime in 2021.
