Fans expecting Season 9 of The Rookie this fall will have to wait longer. Here’s why ABC is delaying the show’s return and when you can expect it back.
Why The Rookie Won’t Be Returning to ABC This Fall With Season 9
ABC’s hit police drama The Rookie has built a strong fanbase over eight seasons, so it came as a surprise when the network confirmed that Season 9 will not premiere this fall. The delay has left many viewers wondering what’s going on behind the scenes.
According to ABC’s updated fall lineup, The Rookie is not included in the network’s fall 2025 schedule. Instead, the show is being held for a midseason release—a growing trend among networks trying to manage production timelines and content strategies in a changing television landscape.
One key reason for the delay is scheduling flexibility. ABC is strategically spacing out its most popular series to maintain strong viewership throughout the year. By pushing The Rookie to midseason, the network ensures that fans stay engaged during the traditionally slower winter and spring months.
Additionally, while no production issues have been reported, it’s common for shows with large ensemble casts and action-driven plots to require more lead time in post-production. This delay allows the creative team to deliver the high-quality storytelling fans have come to expect from the series.
What This Means for Fans
The good news is that The Rookie has officially been renewed for Season 9. The bad news? You’ll need to wait until early 2026 to see what’s next for John Nolan and the team. ABC is expected to announce a premiere date closer to the end of the year.
In the meantime, reruns and streaming options will be available, and fans can look forward to a bigger, bolder return packed with twists and character development when the series makes its midseason debut.
