The Rookie showrunner Alexi Hawley has confirmed that Season 7 begins a few weeks after the Season 6 finale. He discussed the time jump, new rookies, and threats to Nolan and Bailey. Hawley also highlighted evolving character dynamics and ongoing storylines, including a police corruption scandal.
Alexi Hawley says The Rookie Season 7 starts ‘a few weeks’ after Season 6
Alexi Hawley, showrunner for The Rookie, confirmed to TVLine that Season 7 begins “a few weeks” after Season 6.
“It’s been a few weeks, time enough for Nolan to heal up [from being shot in the butt],” Hawley said. Episode 1 questions whether Nolan has fully recovered. The season opens with Nolan feeling pressured to protect his family from Jason, Bailey’s ex-husband, who poses a serious threat.
Discussing new recruits, Hawley revealed that Deric Augustine and Patrick Keleher join as Miles and Seth. “I thought it was super interesting to bring on a rookie who isn’t a rookie [Miles], although he is a rookie in Los Angeles,” he explained. Seth, meanwhile, offers a contrast with his youth and eagerness, which Hawley described as “fun.”
Tim Bradford and Lucy Chen, often referred to as “Chenford” by fans, will explore their next chapter. Hawley noted, “The worst thing [Bradford] could possibly think to do to himself was to break up with Lucy.” However, he shared that the new season aims to shift focus to their chemistry and competitive banter, with a wager setting the tone in the first episode.
The police corruption scandal continues to impact the team, with Wesley Evers uncovering critical information. “It felt important that we kept that alive, that we didn’t just drop the ball on that,” Hawley emphasized. This arc integrates into the larger themes of justice and accountability.
The show returns with heightened action sequences, which Hawley described as a “re-pilot” approach, stating, “We really leaned in, trying to go as big as you can go.”
Season 7 premieres on January 7, 2025, on ABC.