Summary
The Rookieseason 7 ended this past spring witha divisive finale that left some fans wanting more. Fromthe state of Lucy Chen’s (Melissa O’Neil) and Tim Bradford (Eric Winter) relationshipto the promise of exciting action sequences, viewers aren’t sure that they got exactly what they hoped for. But the show can definitely move in a more exciting direction inseason 8, which will premiere in January 2026. Fans recently learned that some of the cast members were filming in Prague, which hints ata thrilling new setting for the seriesfor at least one episode.
While fans wait to hear possible spinoff ofThe Rookie, they’re also ready to see Nolan and the other memorable characters come back. However, since the show has been on the air since 2018,it’s time to make some changes.
The Rookie Season 8 Should Give Nathan Fillion’s John Nolan A Detective Promotion (And A New Rookie Character)
In aRedditthread, several fans shared what they want to see inThe Rookieseason 8, besidesLucy Chen and Tim Bradford getting back together.Several viewers want Nolan to be promoted to detective since this has been a dream of his,and many think a new rookie should be introduced as well. One fan wrote:
“I NEED Nolan to succeed and develop as a cop and maybe getting back on the detective track?
Redditor @jakemmm9715 suggested:
“Maybe a new rookie or transfer to Mid Wilshire. I want this character to be different than any other character.”
Since Nolan has achieved his goal of becoming a cop, and it’s been seven seasons since he first pursued a new life, it’s the exact right time for him to move on. It’s also the right time for a new character to come in.John Oliver joked about the premise ofThe Rookieno longer being relevant since Nolan isn’t a rookie now, and he has a good point.Nolan needs to experience growth and change, which would keepThe Rookieseason 8 fresh and fun.
AlthoughNolan is still the heart ofThe Rookie, the ABC procedural is an ensemble drama that gives equal screen time to its large cast of characters. While it’s great to get to know the others, Nolan had perhaps his least compelling character arc in season 7. He chases long-time villain Oscar Hutchinson (Matthew Glave) inthe season 7 finale, and he does his job in every episode, but he needs more to do.
This storyline would also give another character the chance to become a mentor, andCelinaJuarez (Lisseth Chavez) would be the perfect choice. Celina’sThe Rookieseason 7 arc revolved around her grief surrounding the death of her sister Blanca, which was examined inepisode 14, “Mad About Murder.“Her relationship with Rodge (Xander Hawley) was also explored. But since Celina is such a compelling, smart, and determined character, she needs the spotlight in season 8. She’s experienced enough to know how to help someone become better at their job, but young enough that she remembers what it was like to be just starting out.
Nathan Fillion Loves Playing Nolan On The Rookie (And He’s One Of The Actor’s Most Memorable Characters)
Nathan Fillion has talked a lot about his experience playing Nolan onThe Rookie, fromsharing his thoughts about how many seasonsthe show could have topraising Pete Davidson’s performance as his half-brother. It sounds like he enjoys playing likable Nolan as much as fans enjoy watching him.
In a March 2025 interview onGood Morning America, Fillion spoke highly of his time on the ABC drama and said:
“I’m having a lot of fun. I’ll tell you, 31 years in the business, this is probably the best job I’ve ever had.”
Fillion said yes toThe Rookiewhen he hadn’t seen a script because he loved the premise so much. He toldThe Hollywood Reporter:
“This one has an engine. [John Nolan] is literally starting his life over, from scratch. He has an incredible history behind him, but he’s starting everything brand new. It’s a very attractive prospect that people can relate to.”
Fillion has had a long career that includes an interesting mix of TV and movie roles, from a doctor on the soapy dramaDesperate Housewivestoa role inDeadpool & Wolverine. Although viewers loved seeing himplay thriller writer Richard Castle on eight seasons ofCastle, Fillion’sThe Rookiecharacter is one of his most beloved parts. As the actor noted, Nolan is relatable and grounded. He’s also a reminder that people can change careers and that their journey might turn out differently than they originally thought.
