The 2023 SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes delayed many TV shows that were scheduled to premiere that fall, only to be pushed to early 2024. Fans are certainly hoping things will return to normal for their favorite series this coming fall, but two shows that will be returning a little later are ABC’s “Will Trent” and “The Rookie.” But don’t worry; it’s all for the best in this case.
When ABC announced its fall schedule, neither of those shows were anywhere to be seen. It’s all part of the plan, as Disney Television Group president Craig Erwich told TVLine, “I felt like the best way to get those shows off was to launch in January, when we have this big advertising platform around ‘New Years Rockin’ Eve’ as well as college sports and Christmas, and also to have them air back-to-back.”
That’s right. Fall shows typically take long breaks to accommodate holidays and sports seasons. It sounds like “Will Trent” and “The Rookie” will be airing back-to-back through January 2025, for a total of 18 episodes. Good things come to those who wait, and this ultimately seems like a win for longtime fans of both shows.
“Will Trent” has been a huge hit for ABC from the get-go. The series has impressed fans with its compelling storyline and incredible acting. “Will Trent” Season 2 saw an increase in viewership compared to the first season, a move that was appreciated by the show’s lead star. Ramón Rodríguez, who plays lead Will Trent, shared his excitement at getting the positive news ahead of schedule on “The Tamron Hall Show,” saying, “Sometimes when you’re wrapping up a show, you don’t know what’s going to happen next… But then, knowing that you have a little bit of security. We’re going to keep coming back and thanking the crew personally. We got to announce, ‘We’re coming back for Season 3! ‘” “The Rookie” has been around a little longer than “Will Trent,” as it will begin its seventh season in the new year. Still, renewals are always exciting no matter what the show is, and Nathan Fillion, who plays lead John Nolan, also expressed his gratitude for being allowed to reprise such a great role. He said this on Instagram, “It’s great to have a job. It’s even better to be proud of that job. If you’re one of the people who’s enjoying ‘The Rookie,’ we owe you a big thank you.”
Both shows will end their current seasons on May 21 and return in early 2025 to bring audiences even more great procedural action.
