The next spinoff of The Rookie gets a big filming update. A new iteration of The Rookie is currently being developed by ABC, 20th Television, and Lionsgate Television. Coming after The Rookie: Feds’ cancellation, the project would be the next spinoff for the popular police procedural. It’s currently titled The Rookie North, with franchise creator Alexi Hawley writing the pilot script.
The Rookie North is not yet picked up. After the pilot is filmed and edited, it will be shown to ABC. The network will then decide whether it wants to move forward with the series or pass on it. But in new comments, the franchise creator offered a window into filming plans.
In comments to Deadline at ABC’s End of Summer Soirée event, Hawley revealed that The Rookie North is looking to get the ball rolling and will aim to film the pilot episode in the spring or late winter:
“I think we are looking at shooting a pilot in the spring or late winter, so we are gearing up for that. ”
What This Means For The Rookie North
There have been evolving reports on the premise of The Rookie North as it gears up for filming. It will be set in Washington state, potentially following a protagonist who joins the police force later in life. Earlier details suggested that the main character would be an overachiever named Alex. However, after some casting setbacks, it’s unclear whether that’s still the case.
The project, which hails from Hawley, who executive produces alongside The Rookie’s Nathan Fillion, Bill Norcross, and Michelle Champman, had approached a well-known television actor for The Rookie North’s starring role, but plans did not work out. As it stands, the casting process is moving more slowly to wait for a window where more actors become available.
Although an exact release date has not been confirmed, The Rookie season 8 is deep into filming and will debut in 2026. After 126 episodes to date, the police procedural is one of the most-streamed dramas. It speaks to how well The Rookie’s cast of characters gel together, underlining the importance of getting the casting right.
Our Take On The Rookie North’s Status
Reading that one of the goals has been to cast a well-known TV actor, I thought about if David Boreanaz is in consideration. He is a very familiar face, having been a leading man since his breakout role as the broody Angel on Buffy the Vampire Slayer in 1997. He’s since been on Bones for nearly two decades, followed by a seven season run on SEAL Team.
Whoever ends up leading The Rookie North, it is a good sign that everyone is taking the time to make sure that the right pieces fall together to deliver a show that will appeal to viewers.
