The Rookie Season 8 on Track Amid Major Updates & Creative Shakeups

🎬 Season 8 to Premiere Midseason in January 2026

Unlike previous fall premieres, The Rookie Season 8 is set to debut in January 2026 as a midseason entry. ABC’s decision reflects a strategy to maintain the show’s momentum while avoiding the heavy competition of fall programming. The season is expected to run for 18 episodes, maintaining the action-packed pacing fans have come to expect.

🌍 Season Premiere Partially Filmed in Prague

In a July 2025 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Nathan Fillion confirmed that the Season 8 premiere episode was filmed in Prague, Czech Republic. Describing the tone as having a “James Bond” energy, Fillion hinted that the new season will kick off with international intrigue and cinematic flair. This marks the first time the series has filmed outside of the United States, a major shift in scope for the Los Angeles-set drama.

💔 Ongoing Arcs: Monica’s Immunity Deal & ‘Chenford’ Uncertainty

Showrunner Alexi Hawley has confirmed that Season 8 will dive deeper into the aftermath of Monica’s controversial immunity deal with the LAPD. The storyline promises to challenge the department’s ethics and test loyalties within the team. Meanwhile, fans of the beloved couple Lucy Chen (Melissa O’Neil) and Tim Bradford (Eric Winter)—collectively known as “Chenford”—can expect further emotional tension as their romantic future remains unresolved following the events of Season 7.

🧭 Spinoff Series ‘The Rookie: North’ in Development

As The Rookie continues to thrive, ABC is expanding the universe with a new spinoff titled The Rookie: North. The new series will follow a rookie officer starting over in Washington state, mirroring Nolan’s original journey as a middle-aged newcomer to law enforcement. Series creator Alexi Hawley will oversee the project, with Nathan Fillion on board as an executive producer.

🎤 Nathan Fillion: “The Best Job I’ve Ever Had”

In a recent interview, Fillion reflected on his long tenure with the series: “It’s probably the best job I’ve ever had. The cast, the crew, the stories—we keep growing, and I still feel like we’re just getting started.” His enthusiasm for the role and the team continues to fuel the show’s creative momentum.

👀 Fan-Favorite Guest Star May Return

Rumors are circulating that Pete Davidson may reprise his role as Pete Nolan, John’s eccentric half-brother. Fillion has publicly voiced interest in having Davidson return, and fans are already buzzing about what this potential guest appearance could mean for the tone of Season 8.

📺 Where to Catch Up Before Season 8

Fans can rewatch all seven seasons of The Rookie on Hulu and Disney+, with reruns also airing on UPtv, which launched a marathon of the series in July 2025. The network’s continued support reflects the show’s solid viewer base and growing cultural footprint.