The universe of The Rookie may be expanding. According to new industry reports and insider leaks, ABC is actively exploring a potential spinoff series set in the same world as its hit procedural drama starring Nathan Fillion.
While nothing has been officially greenlit yet, several new details have surfaced that suggest development is further along than fans might have realized.
🔍 Early Concept and Creative Team
Sources close to ABC’s development department confirm that a spinoff is “in serious talks” and is being guided by executive producer Alexi Hawley, who created The Rookie and its previous short-lived spinoff, The Rookie: Feds.
Unlike Feds, which focused on the FBI, the new spinoff is rumored to stay closer to the LAPD universe, possibly centering on a different division — such as K-9, Vice, or even Internal Affairs — offering a fresh lens on law enforcement while keeping the tone familiar.
“It’s still in early stages, but the creative team is determined to get it right this time,” one insider shared. “They’ve learned a lot from Feds and want something that truly connects with The Rookie audience.”
🎭 Returning Faces — and New Ones?
Another point sparking fan buzz is the possibility of familiar characters crossing over into the new series. While no names have been officially confirmed, several fan-favorite supporting characters are reportedly being considered as leads or recurring roles — including:
- Detective Nyla Harper (Mekia Cox)
- Sergeant Wade Grey (Richard T. Jones)
- Aaron Thorsen (Tru Valentino)
At the same time, casting calls have reportedly gone out for new characters, including a young rookie K-9 handler, a veteran Internal Affairs investigator, and a tech-savvy criminal analyst — suggesting a dynamic ensemble may be in the works.
📺 A Strategic Move for ABC
ABC has seen consistent success with The Rookie, which is heading into its eighth season in 2026. Expanding the franchise makes sense as the network seeks to maintain strong ratings and capture younger audiences with interconnected storytelling — a strategy that has worked well for franchises like Grey’s Anatomy and NCIS.
The failed launch of The Rookie: Feds in 2022 left ABC cautious, but insiders say the network remains confident in the world Alexi Hawley has built — and believes the right concept could finally deliver a breakout hit.
“They’re not rushing it. This time, the goal is long-term success, not just a quick ratings boost,” a source said.
🔮 When Could It Premiere?
If greenlit, the earliest the new spinoff could begin production is late 2025, with a potential premiere in mid-to-late 2026. ABC is expected to make an official announcement during the next TCA (Television Critics Association) press tour, or possibly during its 2026 upfront presentations.
📣 What Fans Are Saying
Online, fans have responded with a mix of cautious optimism and genuine excitement:
“I’d love a Nyla Harper-led spinoff. She deserves more screen time.”
“I’m all in if they focus on K-9 units or undercover work. There’s so much potential.”
“Please just don’t cancel it after one season like Feds.”
✅ Final Thoughts
While still unconfirmed, the emerging details suggest that The Rookie spinoff may be closer to reality than ever before. With a seasoned showrunner, a loyal fanbase, and renewed interest in expanding procedural universes, ABC might just have another franchise hit in the making.
Fans — stay tuned. The next chapter in The Rookie universe may be just around the corner.
