The Rookie

The Rookie is an American police procedural television series created by Alexi Hawley for ABC.

The Rookie is an American police procedural television series created by Alexi Hawley for ABC. It stars Nathan Fillion, a Canadian actor from Edmonton, Alberta, as John Nolan, a man in his 40s who joins the Los Angeles Police Department as its oldest rookie. The series premiered on October 16, 2018, and is based on the real-life experience of LAPD officer William Norcross.

Premise

The series centers on John Nolan, who becomes the oldest rookie at the Los Angeles Police Department after moving to Los Angeles to begin a new career. The story follows his adjustment to police work and the demands of life on the force.

Production

The Rookie was created by Alexi Hawley and premiered on ABC on October 16, 2018. It is produced by 20th Television and Lionsgate Television, with ABC Studios and The Mark Gordon Company also listed among its production companies in some sources.

Cast

Nathan Fillion stars as John Nolan, with Alyssa Diaz, Richard T. Jones, Melissa O'Neil, Eric Winter, and others appearing in major roles. The cast has changed over time as the series has continued across multiple seasons.

Reception and run

The series has remained on ABC since its debut and was renewed for a ninth season in 2026. It is one of ABC’s longer-running current series.