With The Rookie entering its eighth season, fans are eager to see how the long-running police drama will keep things fresh. According to star Nathan Fillion, who plays Officer John Nolan, the upcoming premiere episode is already shaping up to be one of the show’s most ambitious yet—largely because it was filmed far from Los Angeles, in the historic city of Prague, Czech Republic.
A Premiere With International Flair
During a recent panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2025, Fillion shared his excitement about filming abroad. “Shooting in Prague felt like filming Casino Royale,” he joked, noting the grandeur of the city’s architecture and the cinematic quality it added to the episode.
For a show that usually keeps its stories grounded in Los Angeles, the Prague setting promises a fresh visual style. Executive producer Alexi Hawley explained that the international backdrop wasn’t just for spectacle—it ties directly into the case Nolan and his team face at the start of the season.
Keeping The Rookie Fresh
After more than 100 episodes, The Rookie continues to find ways to surprise its audience. Fillion acknowledged that filming in LA sometimes presents challenges—fans often recognize the cast during outdoor shoots, occasionally disrupting scenes. But the Prague production offered a different energy.
“It was exciting because nobody was yelling ‘John Nolan!’ at me in the middle of a take,” Fillion said with a laugh. “We got to really immerse ourselves in the story.”
What To Expect From Season 8
While Fillion remained careful not to give away spoilers, he teased that Season 8 will open with high stakes, setting the tone for the episodes to follow. “It’s one of those premieres where you’ll see our characters pushed in new ways,” he hinted.
Fans can also expect the continued development of beloved relationships, including Chenford, as well as new challenges for Nolan as he steps further into a leadership role. According to Fillion, Season 8 “blends everything fans love—action, heart, humor—but turns the dial up a bit.”
A Star Enjoying The Ride
For Nathan Fillion, The Rookie has become more than just another job. He recently described it as “the best job I’ve ever had,” crediting the strong ensemble cast and creative freedom as reasons why the show continues to thrive. With the Prague premiere marking a bold new chapter, it’s clear that both the star and the series are still brimming with energy.
As Season 8 prepares to debut, fans can look forward to a premiere unlike anything The Rookie has done before—proof that even after seven seasons, John Nolan’s story is still full of surprises.
