As fans eagerly await the return of The Rookie for its highly anticipated Season 7, there’s one thing on everyone’s mind: which beloved characters will make their return? Throughout the show’s previous seasons, we’ve seen many familiar faces come and go, each leaving an undeniable impact on the storyline and its viewers. But with Season 7 on the horizon, there’s still hope that some of these missing characters will return to shake things up.
Whether they left due to personal reasons, dramatic exits, or simply faded into the background, fans are clamoring for their favorite characters to make a comeback. In this article, we’ll discuss the 10 missing characters we’d love to see return in The Rookie Season 7, why their return would elevate the show, and how their reappearance could impact the current storyline.
1. Officer Talia Bishop: A Strong Female Presence Missing in Action
Talia Bishop, portrayed by Afton Williamson, was a beloved character in the early seasons of The Rookie. As one of the first African American female officers on the show, Talia brought a unique blend of strength, intelligence, and vulnerability to the series. Her departure in Season 2 left a void that’s yet to be filled.
Fans of the show have expressed their desire to see Talia back in the fold. Her return could provide new storylines focused on diversity and overcoming systemic obstacles within law enforcement. The chemistry she had with fellow officers, especially with John Nolan and Angela Lopez, would be a highlight for Season 7.
Why We Need Talia’s Return:
- Representation matters: Talia’s return could bring a fresh perspective to the challenges of being a woman of color in a male-dominated profession.
- Emotional depth: She could reconnect with old colleagues, offering a chance to explore unresolved emotional arcs.
2. Officer Jackson West: What Happened to Him?
Jackson West, played by Titus Makin Jr., was another standout character in the earlier seasons of The Rookie. His development from a rookie cop to a seasoned officer was a major storyline, and his departure in Season 4 left fans heartbroken. Despite his absence, Jackson is still very much alive in the world of The Rookie, which gives us hope that he might make a return in Season 7.
What Jackson’s Return Could Bring:
- Unfinished business: Jackson left with unresolved tension, especially with his father, Commander West.
- A new perspective: As a more experienced officer, Jackson could offer a new outlook on the challenges Nolan faces.
3. Detective Nick Armstrong: The Villain Who’s Too Good to Forget
The role of Detective Nick Armstrong, portrayed by Harold Perrineau, was a pivotal one in Season 1. As a mentor to Nolan, Nick seemed like a good cop at first, but his true nature as a villain was slowly revealed. His shocking betrayal left a lasting impact on the show, and though he met his demise in Season 1, his death was never fully explained.
Fans have been clamoring for a return, whether in flashbacks, dream sequences, or some supernatural twist. Bringing back Nick Armstrong would open up an opportunity to explore the darker side of law enforcement, and how Nolan’s early experiences still affect him.
Why Fans Want Nick Back:
- Intrigue and mystery: Could Armstrong have a hand in future criminal activities, even from beyond the grave?
- A mentor gone wrong: Reconnecting with Nolan’s past could provide deeper emotional context for his journey.
4. Officer Lucy Chen’s Former Partner: Officer Nolan’s Old Buddy
One of the standout pairings in The Rookie was Lucy Chen and her former partner Officer Tim Bradford. However, there was another officer who played a critical role in Lucy’s early development — her original partner, Officer Nolan. His return could stir up old dynamics and reignite some tension within the precinct.
While Nolan has become a seasoned officer, bringing back his former partner could provide new angles on their relationship, offering opportunities for growth, conflict, and potential reconciliation.
The Impact of His Return:
- Tim Bradford’s reaction: How would Tim feel about Nolan’s return? Would it be a threat to his partnership with Lucy?
- Lucy’s growth: Returning to her roots might provide Lucy with some tough choices as she navigates her own career.
5. Captain Zoe Anderson: A Leader With Unfinished Business
Captain Zoe Anderson, portrayed by Mercedes Moné, was a formidable figure in The Rookie‘s first few seasons. Known for her no-nonsense approach and leadership skills, Zoe was a mentor to the officers under her command. However, her sudden departure left fans wondering what could have been.
With Season 7 on the horizon, her return could add an element of authority and stability that’s currently missing. Her mentorship could provide much-needed guidance to new recruits like Lucy Chen or Jackson West, who would benefit from Zoe’s wealth of knowledge and experience.
Why Fans Want Zoe Back:
- Leadership expertise: Captain Anderson’s strong leadership could help guide the precinct in tough times.
- Unfinished arcs: Fans want to know more about Zoe’s background and the reasons behind her exit.
6. Officer Bradford’s Ex-Wife: A Return to Love and Conflict
Officer Tim Bradford has had his fair share of drama, especially when it comes to his ex-wife, Rachel. Their complex relationship was explored in earlier seasons, with plenty of unresolved tension between the two. Though they are not currently in each other’s lives, the introduction of Rachel’s return would certainly stir the pot.
Her return could bring drama, emotional growth for Tim, and provide more layers to his character that fans have been craving. Will they rekindle their old flame, or will their issues continue to divide them?
Rachel’s Potential Impact:
- Romantic drama: Tim’s love life has always been a focal point, and Rachel’s return could open up new possibilities.
- Character growth: This could be an opportunity for Tim to confront past mistakes and evolve emotionally.
7. Detective Felicia Morales: A Master of the Streets
Detective Felicia Morales, portrayed by Paula Newsome, is another character that fans miss dearly. As a strong, street-smart officer, Felicia could bring valuable experience and wisdom to the squad. While she wasn’t a main character for long, her skills as a detective and her no-nonsense attitude made her a standout in her brief appearances.
Why Fans Want Felicia Back:
- Street smarts: Felicia’s experience in the field could offer a unique perspective on cases that are complex or tough to crack.
- Chemistry with Nolan: Her interactions with Nolan were always full of wit and camaraderie, making her return highly anticipated.
8. Officer Angela Lopez’s Old Mentor: A Return to a Strong Female Mentor
Angela Lopez, portrayed by Alyssa Diaz, is a strong, fearless officer who’s had her own journey throughout The Rookie. One key figure from her past that many fans would love to see is her old mentor, Officer Liza Amaro. Liza’s wisdom and guidance helped shape Angela into the officer she is today, and her return could provide a fresh dynamic to Angela’s storyline.
What Liza’s Return Could Bring:
- Mentorship and guidance: Liza could help Angela through some of the challenges she faces in her career.
- Deeper emotional connection: Their reunion could explore unresolved issues and bring emotional depth to Angela’s character.
9. Officer Wesley Evers: A Story of Redemption
As one of the key figures in The Rookie’s earlier seasons, Officer Wesley Evers made quite an impression. His struggles with balancing his personal life and his job were heart-wrenching, and his absence from recent seasons has left fans yearning for his return. His return would allow him to work through unresolved personal issues, including the trauma of his previous relationship with Angela Lopez.
Why Wesley Needs to Return:
- Redemption story: Wesley’s return could focus on his journey toward healing and redemption.
- Love triangle drama: His reunion with Angela could rekindle old sparks and stir up unresolved feelings.
10. Officer Henry Grey: The Mentor Who Could Guide the Next Generation
Officer Henry Grey, portrayed by Richard Tatum, was a mentor figure in earlier seasons. His fatherly advice and calm demeanor made him a fan favorite, and his departure left a hole in the emotional core of the show. A return from Henry would bring stability and wisdom, both of which the rookie officers desperately need.
Why Henry’s Return Is Crucial:
- Mentorship: Henry’s return would provide a much-needed source of wisdom for the newer officers.
- Emotional growth: His presence could help characters like Nolan and Chen navigate personal challenges in their careers.
Conclusion: The Return of Fan-Favorite Characters Could Revive The Rookie Season 7
As The Rookie Season 7 approaches, the excitement about which characters will return is palpable. These ten missing characters — whether they left because of personal reasons, storylines, or other circumstances — have left a lasting impact on fans and the storyline. Their return could breathe new life into the series and offer fresh perspectives, emotional depth, and, of course, plenty of drama. Whether it’s through flashbacks, reunions, or new twists, bringing back these characters would undoubtedly make Season 7 one of the most exciting yet.
FAQs
1. Will Talia Bishop return in Season 7 of The Rookie?
While there has been no official confirmation, many fans are hopeful that Talia will return in some form, given her impactful departure and unresolved storylines.
2. Why did Jackson West leave The Rookie?
Jackson West’s departure was part of the ongoing character arc and personal growth in the series. His return could provide closure and new development for his character.
3. Could Nick Armstrong return as a ghost or in flashbacks?
There’s a possibility that Nick Armstrong could return in flashbacks or dream sequences, given his pivotal role in Nolan’s early days.
4. What can we expect from Captain Zoe Anderson’s return?
If Zoe returns, we can expect a stronger leadership presence and possibly some unresolved conflicts with her previous team.
5. Are there any rumors about Officer Wesley Evers returning in Season 7?
There are no confirmed reports, but given the emotional depth of Wesley’s character, fans are hopeful for a return that could explore his journey of redemption.
