In the bustling world of television dramas, few shows have captured audiences quite like The Rookie. With its unique blend of humor, action, and character-driven storytelling, the series has secured a loyal fan base since its debut. As the show gears up for its highly anticipated season 8, discussions about potential spinoffs are heating up, particularly one that could expand the universe established by the original series.
Recently, showrunner Alexi Hawley hinted at the development of a new spinoff during an interview with TV Insider. "Just that there’s a script that I’ve been going back and forth with ABC about. They give notes and I do the work and I’m an ever-hopeful human being. And so I would love nothing more than to expand the universe and go make it," Hawley shared. He expressed his excitement, saying, "So we’ll see. I don’t know. I mean the business right now is a little what it is, but I mean, I remain hopeful. We’ll see what happens.”
The original spinoff, The Rookie: Feds, which aired from September 2022 to May 2023, was not renewed due to modest ratings, as reported by Deadline in November 2023. Despite its cancellation, Hawley has remained optimistic about the potential for a new series. In December 2024, Variety reported that the new spinoff is in the "early development" stage and will focus on a male police officer transitioning into a new phase of his career, similar to Nathan Fillion's character, John Nolan.
As fans eagerly await the conclusion of season 7, which premiered in January 2025, they can take comfort in the fact that season 8 has already been confirmed. The series continues to explore the personal and professional lives of the LAPD officers, including Nolan and his wife, Bailey Nune (Jenna Dewan). Recent episodes have delved into the complexities of their relationships, particularly with the character Seth Ridley (Patrick Kehler), whose actions have caused tension within the precinct.
The penultimate episode of season 7, titled "Mutiny and the Bounty," aired on May 6, 2025, and showcased the return of fan-favorite character Skip Tracer Randy, played by Flula Borg. Now a crypto multimillionaire, Randy's chaotic lifestyle provided comedic relief amidst the show's more intense storylines. Hawley noted the importance of balancing humor with drama, stating, "Borg's screen presence causes a fun lightheartedness in The Rookie, which anchors on intense narratives." This blend of tones is a hallmark of the series, allowing it to tackle serious themes while still engaging viewers with levity.
With season 8 set to air in the fall, the series is also looking to bring back notable guest stars. One character fans are eager to see again is Pete Nolan, Officer Nolan's half-brother, portrayed by comedian Pete Davidson. Hawley expressed his desire to have Davidson return, noting that his team has been in contact with the actor's representatives. "Pete Davidson is someone we’re desperate to get back, and he loves doing the show. His reps have reached out to us about him doing the show; it’s just about trying to land when he’s actually available, because he’s super busy," Hawley explained.
As The Rookie continues to thrive, it has attracted a variety of guest stars over the years, including culinary icon Wolfgang Puck and actor Ricky Whittle. The inclusion of such personalities not only adds depth to the storylines but also injects fresh energy into the series, keeping audiences engaged. The upcoming season promises to deliver more of the same, with new conflicts and character developments that fans have come to love.
Meanwhile, the show’s ratings remain strong, with episode 11, titled "Speed," achieving impressive viewership numbers. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the episode garnered 8.25 million total viewers over three days, underscoring the show's popularity. As the finale approaches, anticipation builds for how the season will wrap up and what new challenges the characters will face in the future.
Hawley’s commitment to creating compelling narratives is evident in both The Rookie and its potential spinoff. He has a history of crafting engaging stories, having previously served as showrunner for the Netflix thriller The Recruit, which ran for two seasons. His experience in the industry has equipped him with the skills to navigate the complexities of television production, including the challenges posed by the recent WGA/SAG-AFTRA strikes that impacted many shows.
As viewers look forward to the next chapter in The Rookie saga, the prospect of a new spinoff adds an exciting layer to the franchise. With a strong script in hand and a dedicated team behind it, the potential for expansion seems promising. While fans remain hopeful for updates on the spinoff, they can take solace in the fact that the original series will continue to deliver the heartfelt stories and thrilling action they have come to expect.
In a world where police dramas often grapple with complex societal issues, The Rookie stands out for its positive portrayal of law enforcement and the sacrifices made by first responders. As the show continues to evolve, it remains committed to showcasing the humanity behind the badge, making it a favorite among viewers seeking both entertainment and meaningful storytelling.
