ABC Officially Renews The Rookie
On April 3, 2025, ABC officially confirmed that The Rookie will return for Season 8. The news spread quickly across the entertainment industry, sparking excitement among fans who have followed John Nolan’s journey from rookie cop to veteran officer.
However, there’s a twist: while renewed, The Rookie will not appear on ABC’s Fall 2025 schedule. Instead, the network announced the show will return as a midseason series, with a premiere expected in early 2026. This mirrors the scheduling approach taken for Season 7, ensuring fewer interruptions and a more consistent weekly rollout.
Cast Shake-Ups and Character Promotions
Season 8 will once again deliver 18 episodes, keeping the format consistent with Season 7. ABC also confirmed that Deric Augustine—who has recurred as Miles Penn—will now join the cast as a series regular, expanding the show’s roster of dynamic characters.
Returning stars include:
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Nathan Fillion (John Nolan)
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Alyssa Diaz (Angela Lopez)
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Richard T. Jones (Wade Grey)
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Mekia Cox (Nyla Harper)
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Melissa O’Neil (Lucy Chen)
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Eric Winter (Tim Bradford)
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Jenna Dewan (Bailey Nune)
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Shawn Ashmore (Wesley Evers)
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Lisseth Chavez (Celina Juarez)
Meanwhile, speculation continues about the possible return of Pete Davidson as Nolan’s half-brother Pete. Nathan Fillion teased during a Comic-Con panel that the door is “always open” for Davidson to make another cameo.
A Bold International Premiere
One of the biggest surprises revealed at San Diego Comic-Con 2025 is that the Season 8 premiere will take place in Prague, Czech Republic. This marks the first time the series has opened outside of Los Angeles. Showrunner Alexi Hawley explained that the move is designed to “raise the stakes and expand the world,” hinting that Nolan and his team will be drawn into an international case involving organized crime.
Fans React to ABC’s Scheduling
When ABC’s Fall 2025 lineup was released without The Rookie, fans voiced their frustration online. Social media lit up with posts like:
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“Why is ABC sidelining one of their best shows?”
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“Put The Rookie back in the fall schedule!”
In response, ABC reassured viewers that the decision was made to keep the season uninterrupted once it begins, a strategy that proved effective during Season 7.
What to Expect in Season 8
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International stakes: The Prague opening suggests global storylines, with Nolan possibly facing threats beyond Los Angeles.
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Character growth: With Miles Penn promoted to the main cast, expect new dynamics within the team.
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Family drama: Pete Davidson’s potential return could bring unresolved family conflicts back into Nolan’s life.
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Legal intrigue: Rumors hint that Wesley Evers may take on a new political or legal role, possibly positioning him for a run at District Attorney.
The Road Ahead
Though fans will have to wait until early 2026, Season 8 promises to be one of The Rookie’s most ambitious chapters yet. Between an international premiere, new regulars, and the possibility of returning guest stars, ABC is betting that the long wait will pay off with a bigger, bolder season.
