Another spinoff of The Rookie is in the works, and it will significantly deviate from its predecessors, thanks to one major change. The original ABC cop show premiered in 2018 and was an instant hit. Now, it’s going on eight seasons. As such, it only makes sense that the network would want to capitalize on its success by expanding its universe via spinoffs.
The Rookie North Will Film The Pilot During The Late Winter/Early Summer
The Spinoff Is Still In Early Development Stages
In late 2024, reports revealed that The Rookie North was in development, but the show hasn’t started production yet, as of the writing of this article. It’s still in its early stages. However, ABC is making progress. While speaking with Deadline at ABC’s End of Summer Soirée, The Rookie showrunner Alexi Hawley revealed a timetable for the spinoff’s filming start date. He said:
“I think we are looking at shooting a pilot in the spring or late winter, so we are gearing up for that.”
Since ABC hasn’t given the Rookie offshoot a straight-to-series order, it has to shoot a pilot first. Once that’s done, the network can decide to greenlight it or to scrap the project altogether. So, we won’t know whether ABC is going forward with The Rookie North until at least mid-2026, after the cast and crew have filmed the pilot episode.
How Being Set In Seattle Sets Up The Rookie North To Break A Franchise Trend
The Rookie North Will Feature A Different Climate
As its title suggests, The Rookie North will take place in the north. More specifically, it’s set in Washington state, presumably in Seattle, which is a major change for the franchise. Los Angeles serves as the setting for the first two TV shows (The Rookie and The Rookie: Feds), whereas the upcoming spinoff will take place much further north of the city.
The Rookie North will feature a much cooler and rainier climate compared to its predecessors. It’s nearly always sunny in Los Angeles, meaning the original police procedural series is mostly filmed in good weather, even during the winter. The same cannot be said for Washington.
Consequently, the second Rookie offshoot is breaking a longstanding trend for the franchise. Fans can expect to see the new characters experiencing colder weather with its Pacific Northwest location (if ABC greenlights the spinoff). Given this change, perhaps The Rookie North will feature even more deviations from The Rookie.
The Rookie season 8 is set to premiere in early 2026, alongside Will Trent season 4.
