The Rookie season 7 ended this past spring with a divisive finale that left some fans wanting more. From the state of Lucy Chen’s (Melissa O’Neil) and Tim Bradford (Eric Winter) relationship to the promise of exciting action sequences, viewers aren’t sure that they got exactly what they hoped for. But the show can definitely move in a more exciting direction in season 8, which will premiere in January 2026. Fans recently learned that some of the cast members were filming in Prague, which hints at a thrilling new setting for the series for at least one episode.
While fans wait to hear more about a possible spinoff of The Rookie, they’re also ready to see Nolan and the other memorable characters come back. However, since the show has been on the air since 2018, it’s time to make some changes.
The Rookie Season 8 Should Give Nathan Fillion’s John Nolan A Detective Promotion (And A New Rookie Character)
In a Reddit thread, several fans shared what they want to see in The Rookie season 8, besides Lucy Chen and Tim Bradford getting back together. Several viewers want Nolan to be promoted to detective since this has been a dream of his, and many think a new rookie should be introduced as well. One fan wrote:
“I NEED Nolan to succeed and develop as a cop and maybe getting back on the detective track?
Redditor @jakemmm9715 suggested:
“Maybe a new rookie or transfer to Mid Wilshire. I want this character to be different than any other character.”
Since Nolan has achieved his goal of becoming a cop, and it’s been seven seasons since he first pursued a new life, it’s the exact right time for him to move on. It’s also the right time for a new character to come in. John Oliver joked about the premise of The Rookie no longer being relevant since Nolan isn’t a rookie now, and he has a good point. Nolan needs to experience growth and change, which would keep The Rookie season 8 fresh and fun.
Although Nolan is still the heart of The Rookie, the ABC procedural is an ensemble drama that gives equal screen time to its large cast of characters. While it’s great to get to know the others, Nolan had perhaps his least compelling character arc in season 7. He chases long-time villain Oscar Hutchinson (Matthew Glave) in the season 7 finale, and he does his job in every episode, but he needs more to do.
This storyline would also give another character the chance to become a mentor, and Celina Juarez (Lisseth Chavez) would be the perfect choice. Celina’s The Rookie season 7 arc revolved around her grief surrounding the death of her sister Blanca, which was examined in episode 14, “Mad About Murder.” Her relationship with Rodge (Xander Hawley) was also explored. But since Celina is such a compelling, smart, and determined character, she needs the spotlight in season 8. She’s experienced enough to know how to help someone become better at their job, but young enough that she remembers what it was like to be just starting out.
Nathan Fillion Loves Playing Nolan On The Rookie (And He’s One Of The Actor’s Most Memorable Characters)
Nathan Fillion has talked a lot about his experience playing Nolan on The Rookie, from sharing his thoughts about how many seasons the show could have to praising Pete Davidson’s performance as his half-brother. It sounds like he enjoys playing likable Nolan as much as fans enjoy watching him.
In a March 2025 interview on Good Morning America, Fillion spoke highly of his time on the ABC drama and said:
“I’m having a lot of fun. I’ll tell you, 31 years in the business, this is probably the best job I’ve ever had.”
Fillion said yes to The Rookie when he hadn’t seen a script because he loved the premise so much. He told The Hollywood Reporter:
“This one has an engine. [John Nolan] is literally starting his life over, from scratch. He has an incredible history behind him, but he’s starting everything brand new. It’s a very attractive prospect that people can relate to.”
Fillion has had a long career that includes an interesting mix of TV and movie roles, from a doctor on the soapy drama Desperate Housewives to a role in Deadpool & Wolverine. Although viewers loved seeing him play thriller writer Richard Castle on eight seasons of Castle, Fillion’s The Rookie character is one of his most beloved parts. As the actor noted, Nolan is relatable and grounded. He’s also a reminder that people can change careers and that their journey might turn out differently than they originally thought.
