The Rookie may not be returning until 2026, but one of the show’s stars may have revealed a clue about Lucy Chen’s next storyline on social media, sparking conversation about what could be next for the new sergeant. The Rookie, which premiered in 2018, has become one of ABC’s highest-performing shows in recent years. With an influx of viewers, the actors’ behind-the-scenes content is heavily monitored.
After The Rookie season 7 took an interesting turn away from what seemed like the show’s initial intention for Lucy, who’s been building up to being an undercover cop for years, the former rookie got the chance to become a Training Officer of her own. After working through a dramatic storyline with her rookie, Lucy chose to take the Sergeant’s exam.
Her relationship with her former T.O. turned love interest, Tim Bradford, may have led Lucy to a path that allows them to work alongside one another, lifting most of the relationship’s professional complications. Still, Lucy’s time as a sergeant didn’t start ideally, as Sergeant Grey putting Lucy on night shift, leading to Lucy and Tim’s rocky arc in The Rookie season 7.
Thankfully, a clip from The Rookie’s set may have exposed some clues to what’s next.
Deric Augustine Shared A TikTok Featuring Sergeant Chen During The Day
Lucy Working During The Day Is Interesting
Although there’s very little context, The Rookie’s Deric Augustine shared a TikTok featuring himself, Melissa O’Neil, and Lisseth Chavez that could tell viewers more about what’s coming for Lucy this season. Deric, who plays rookie Miles Penn on the series, did a TikTok trend with Melissa, who plays Lucy, and Lisseth, who plays Celina Juarez, that revealed them filming in daylight.
Though based on a viral TikTok trend, seeing Lucy’s uniform sleeve complete with sergeant stripes during the day was a surprise to fans who have been keeping an eye on the actors’ social media presence. As the show’s started filming again for The Rookie season 8, behind-the-scenes footage has been heavily featuring other actors, while Melissa has been less present.
Lucy’s Season 7 Storyline Left Her Working The Night Shift
Fans Didn’t Expect To See Her On Set As Frequently
While The Rookie season 7 took some missteps, especially when it came to Lucy’s character and her relationship with Tim, there was growth surrounding her career that viewers have been waiting to see for seasons. With Lucy finally deciding to take the Sergeant’s exam and passing with flying colors, her placement on the night shift was a slight setback personally, but a professional accomplishment.
With Lucy working nights, however, most fans of The Rookie weren’t expecting to see as much of Melissa in the behind-the-scenes content that the rest of The Rookie’s cast shares online. The cast, known for their fun TikTok presence, has been keeping viewers in the know about the happenings on set, and Deric’s inclusion of Melissa made it clear something may have changed.
The TikTok Could Be A Clue Into Lucy’s Season 8 Storyline
Sergeant Chen May Be Off The Nightshift Quickly
Seeing Melissa in Deric’s TikTok makes it seem like Lucy’s off the night shift fairly quickly in The Rookie season 8. While there’s no detailed confirmation about what’s to come this season, The Rookie showrunner Alexi Hawley has been open about the fact that Tim and Lucy’s relationship troubles are likely behind them. With Melissa shooting during the day, Lucy’s professional woes may be as well.
Although there won’t be confirmation about what’s to come on The Rookie for a few months, the show’s January return can’t come soon enough. The Rookie season 8 will change things for Lucy as she becomes a rookie Sergeant, which will provide its own challenges. With the night shift potentially behind her, The Rookie could have a whole new story in store.
