Ryan Guzman, the dedicated firefighter and paramedic Eddie Díaz on ABC’s hit series ‘9-1-1’, has revealed a heartwarming truth: his on-screen son, Gavin McHugh, who plays Christopher Díaz, served as an invaluable mentor in preparing him for the joys and responsibilities of real-life fatherhood before he welcomed his own children.
In the bustling world of television, where fictional relationships often mirror or even influence real-life experiences, actor Ryan Guzman has found a unique blend of on-screen and off-screen fatherhood. As a beloved member of the ‘9-1-1’ cast, Guzman has portrayed the single father Eddie Díaz to Christopher Díaz, played by Gavin McHugh, since the show’s second season in 2018. This eight-year journey, which continues with the premiere of season 9 on October 9, has offered Guzman a profound and unexpected education in what it means to be a dad, long before he became one himself.
The Heart of a Father: Lessons from the Set of ‘9-1-1’
In an exclusive interview with People, Ryan Guzman, now 38, expressed deep gratitude to Gavin McHugh, 15, for allowing him to “live as a father” on the small screen. “It’s a pleasure to work with him, and it’s a pleasure to call him my work son,” Guzman shared. This unique bond offered him an early glimpse into the responsibilities and joys of parenthood, shaping his perspective even before his own children arrived.
The role of Eddie Díaz on ‘9-1-1’ is more than just a character for Guzman; it’s a profound experience that has taught him invaluable lessons. “In so many ways, I’ve been able to live as a father with him prior to actually being a father, and it’s taught me a lot,” he explained to the publication. This sentiment resonates deeply with fans who have witnessed the nuanced and emotional portrayal of Eddie’s dedication to Christopher, a character who uses a wheelchair.
Gavin McHugh: A “Golden Heart” and a Growing Young Man
The on-screen partnership between Guzman and McHugh is a cornerstone of ‘9-1-1’, evolving significantly over eight years. Guzman marvels at McHugh’s transformation, noting, “He’s literally a young man now. His voice is deeper now, which throws me every single time. He’s grown, probably, I don’t know, a foot.” This personal growth mirrors the maturation of Christopher Díaz’s character within the series, endearing him to audiences.
McHugh’s impact extends beyond his acting talent. Guzman describes him as a truly exceptional individual: “He’s got the heart of America for a reason, because that’s what he is — he’s truly a pure, unique individual with a golden heart.” This praise highlights not just a professional respect, but a genuine affection that has undoubtedly contributed to the authenticity of their on-screen father-son relationship. Fans of ‘9-1-1’ often commend the series for its heartfelt depiction of the Díaz family, a testament to the powerful performances by Guzman and McHugh. More details about the series and its cast can be found on its official IMDb page.
From Fictional Father to Real-Life Dad
Ryan Guzman’s journey into real-life fatherhood began with the welcoming of his son, Mateo, in 2019, followed by his daughter, Genevieve, in 2021, both with partner Chrysti Ane. The lessons learned from portraying Eddie Díaz undoubtedly informed his approach to raising his own children. It’s a compelling example of how art can imitate life, and in this case, profoundly prepare an individual for one of life’s most significant roles.
Before his acting career, Guzman was a former MMA fighter, a background that perhaps instilled in him the discipline and dedication he now applies to both his craft and his family life. Balancing a demanding acting career with the responsibilities of being a father of two, he embodies the “dad mode” both on and off the screen.
Off-Screen Adventures: Halloween with the Guzmans
When not portraying a first responder or navigating the complexities of Los Angeles emergencies, Guzman is fully immersed in his family life. He shared exciting details about his children’s upcoming Halloween plans, showcasing the playful side of his fatherhood. “Right now, my daughter is so ready to be Mira from KPop Demon Hunters — same thing with my son, he’s going to be Jinu, I think,” he enthusiastically revealed. “They’re excited. Yeah, it’s one of the best times of the year for us.”
This glimpse into his personal life further solidifies Guzman’s image as a dedicated family man, mirroring the loving portrayal fans have come to appreciate from his character Eddie Díaz. As ‘9-1-1’ continues its run, Thursday nights at 8 p.m. EST on ABC, and streaming on Hulu the following day, the deep connection between Ryan Guzman and Gavin McHugh remains a testament to the powerful bonds formed both on and off the television screen.
