ABC’s “The Rookie” has returned for its seventh season, continuing to capture viewers with a blend of action, humor, and heartfelt storytelling. Created by Alexi Hawley and inspired by the real-life journey of LAPD officer William Norcross, the show follows John Nolan, played by Nathan Fillion, as he navigates the challenges of being the oldest rookie in the Los Angeles Police Department.
Where to Watch “The Rookie”
“The Rookie” airs on ABC in the United States, with new episodes available to stream shortly after broadcast on Hulu. In Australia and New Zealand, the series can be streamed through Disney+ on the Star content section. Canadian viewers can find the show on Paramount+, while in many other countries, it is available on Netflix. For those who prefer live TV streaming, services that include ABC offer access to the show, often with free trial options. Additionally, earlier seasons can be purchased or rented digitally from popular online platforms.
- USA: ABC (live), Hulu (streaming)
- Australia/New Zealand: Disney+ (Star hub)
- Canada: Paramount+
- Most other regions: Netflix
- Live TV option: YouTube TV (ABC channel)
- Digital purchase/rental: Amazon Prime Video
Demo at: IMDB
Season 7 : The Rookie
Season 7 premiered on January 7, 2025, and has already aired 17 episodes, with the finale just around the corner. The new season picks up with Nolan recovering from a gunshot wound, a storyline that adds both physical and emotional complexity to his character. As Nolan grapples with his recovery, the precinct welcomes two new rookies, Miles and Seth, injecting fresh energy and new dynamics into the team. Miles, portrayed by Deric Augustine, is a Texas transfer with two years of prior experience, while Patrick Keleher’s Seth is eager but still learning the ropes of fast-paced police work.
The ensemble cast remains a major draw, with Mekia Cox (Nyla Harper), Alyssa Diaz (Angela Lopez), Melissa O’Neil (Lucy Chen), Eric Winter (Tim Bradford), Richard T. Jones (Wade Grey), Shawn Ashmore (Wesley Evers), Jenna Dewan (Bailey Nune), and Lisseth Chavez (Celina Juarez) all returning. This season also features new faces and notable guest stars, including Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Enrique “Kiké” Hernandez, who appeared in episode 17, “Mutiny and the Bounty,” adding a real-world celebrity twist to the show’s fictional universe.
“Mutiny and the Bounty” sees the team helping Skip Tracer Randy (Flula Borg) when his new love interest is kidnapped, while Angela and Nyla enlist their mothers to help catch a con artist. Meanwhile, Wesley faces threats to drop a case, keeping the stakes high for the legal side of the precinct. The season finale, “The Good, The Bad, And The Oscars,” promises even more drama, with John Nolan and Harper teaming up to catch a criminal named Oscar, Angela investigating a bank robbery, and Lucy and Tim adapting to a new work schedule.
Beyond the action, “The Rookie” continues to explore the personal lives of its characters. Relationships are tested, new romances blossom, and the pressures of police work are never far from home. The show’s commitment to character development is evident in its nuanced portrayal of both triumphs and struggles, making it more than just a procedural drama.
The series has also received praise for its realism, drawing on authentic LAPD procedures and ranks, from rookie officers to the highest-ranking officials. The attention to detail, such as the use of real police radio codes and the depiction of standard-issue equipment, adds to the show’s credibility and appeal for fans of law enforcement dramas.
Since its debut in 2018, “The Rookie” has built a loyal fanbase and consistently strong ratings, leading to annual renewals. As of April 2025, the show has aired 124 episodes and was recently renewed for an eighth season, ensuring that John Nolan’s journey is far from over.
Off-screen, the series has made headlines for its creative collaborations, such as the recent documentary-style episode featuring Ryan Bergara and Shane Madej, known for their work in true crime and paranormal investigations. Showrunner Alexi Hawley, inspired by his own children’s fandom, brought the duo in for a unique, horror-tinged episode, demonstrating the show’s willingness to experiment and keep things fresh for its audience.
For those new to the series or looking to catch up, “The Rookie” is available to stream on major platforms, and episode guides are readily accessible for both casual viewers and die-hard fans. With its mix of gripping storylines, compelling characters, and authentic police work, “The Rookie” continues to stand out in the crowded field of TV dramas.
As the LAPD’s oldest rookie proves time and again, it’s never too late to start over-or to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. With new challenges, unexpected alliances, and the promise of more to come, “The Rookie” remains a must-watch for anyone craving high-stakes drama with a human touch.
