The Rookie

2018 • TMDB 8.5 • 8 seasons • 145 episodes • Crime, Drama, Comedy • ABC

Overview

The Rookie turns a classic second-chance story into one of network TV’s most durable procedurals. John Nolan, a 45-year-old small-town man, walks away from his old life after a bank robbery shakes him awake and becomes the LAPD’s oldest rookie. His age makes him a curiosity to some and a punchline to others, but Nolan’s life experience — patience, empathy, stubborn decency — turns out to be exactly what policing needs. Around him, the show builds a full ensemble: Lucy Chen’s rise from rookie to undercover standout, Tim Bradford’s gruff mentorship, Angela Lopez’s sharp detective work and Wade Grey’s steady command. Cases range from street crime to international conspiracies, but the show’s real engine is character: rookies growing up, partners falling for each other, mentors learning from their trainees. Nathan Fillion’s warmth keeps it all grounded, and eight seasons in, Nolan’s journey from rookie to training officer still feels earned.

Creator and Main Cast

Created by Alexi Hawley.

• Nathan Fillion as John Nolan (145 episodes)
• Melissa O’Neil as Lucy Chen (145 episodes)
• Eric Winter as Tim Bradford (145 episodes)
• Alyssa Diaz as Angela Lopez (145 episodes)
• Richard T. Jones as Wade Grey (145 episodes)
• Mekia Cox as Nyla Harper (124 episodes)
• Shawn Ashmore as Wesley Evers (105 episodes)
• Jenna Dewan as Bailey Nune (84 episodes)
• Lisseth Chavez as Celina Juarez (65 episodes)

Seasons Snapshot

The Rookie has aired 8 seasons. Season 1 — 20 episodes, premiered October 16, 2018; Season 2 — 20 episodes, premiered September 29, 2019; Season 3 — 14 episodes, premiered January 3, 2021; Season 4 — 22 episodes, premiered September 26, 2021; Season 5 — 22 episodes, premiered September 25, 2022; Season 6 — 10 episodes, premiered February 20, 2024; Season 7 — 18 episodes, premiered January 7, 2025; Season 8 — 18 episodes, premiered January 6, 2026, with the finale “The Bandit” airing May 4, 2026. TMDB also lists a ninth season set to premiere January 6, 2027.

Why Watch The Rookie?

• Nathan Fillion at his most likeable.
• A second-chance story with real heart.
• Procedural cases plus long-running character arcs.
• Chenford and the show’s beloved partnerships.
• Rookies who genuinely grow season by season.
• Eight seasons of easy, bingeable momentum.

Trailer

Watch the official trailer on YouTube (official trailer, Sky Show).

Where to Watch

As checked on JustWatch US on October 30, 2026, The Rookie streams in the United States on Hulu with 8 seasons, Philo with 3 seasons, and fuboTV and YouTube TV with 1 season each. It is also available to buy on Amazon Video and Fandango At Home (8 seasons each).