The landscape of The Rookie is changing as Officer Celina graduates from the LAPD’s rookie program, leaving John Nolan, portrayed by Nathan Fillion, in search of a new trainee. This progression reflects the show’s central premise, revolving around the challenges faced by police officers in the rookie program of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Since Nolan is now a training officer (TO) upon Celina’s departure, he is tasked with mentoring a new rookie to ensure the continuous development of future officers.
Exciting news emerged when ABC confirmed the renewal of The Rookie for an eighth season, set to debut during the 2025–2026 television cycle, hinting at more compelling storylines ahead.
Introducing Connor: Nolan’s New Rookie
The Chaotic Introduction of Connor
In Season 7, Episode 12, viewers are introduced to Officer Connor Craig, played by David Gridley—Nolan’s new rookie following Celina. The episode’s setting on April Fools’ Day leads Nolan to question the legitimacy of the news, especially given that Connor underwent the majority of his rookie training under Sergeant McAdams, widely regarded as one of the LAPD’s top training officers. Nolan struggles to comprehend why Connor would transfer from McAdams before completing his probationary period. Yet, Connor’s honesty sets him on a path to becoming Nolan’s first rookie.
As they head out on patrol, it soon becomes evident that Connor lacks essential skills expected of a rookie officer. He struggles with driving the patrol car, writing tickets, and handling domestic disturbances, showcasing that his training with McAdams left him ill-prepared. Nolan quickly realizes that Connor’s training was not as comprehensive as it should have been.
Recognizing Connor’s potential, Nolan takes on the mantle of his mentor, successfully guiding him through a day that transforms his approach to policing—an achievement that McAdams failed to accomplish during an entire year of training. When Nolan confronts McAdams, the latter reveals his choice to transfer Connor was influenced by his impending retirement and his concern over Connor’s lack of instinctual skills. Undeterred, Nolan gives Connor a chance to prove himself before the day’s end. In a surprising turn of events, Connor rises to the occasion during a chaotic citywide purge-related prank, even managing to solve a murder case, although the episode concludes with Grey assigning Connor to a less demanding division.
The Case for Connor as Nolan’s Permanent Rookie
Nolan’s Role as Connor’s Ideal Mentor
The narrative direction in Season 7 raises questions about the storyline’s depth, especially considering the development of Connor’s character and his dynamic with Nolan. By showcasing Connor overcoming challenges and asserting his capabilities as a police officer, the series has established a compelling argument for why he should step into Celina’s former role and become Nolan’s permanent rookie.
|
The Rookie Season 7 Cast |
Character |
|---|---|
|
Nathan Fillion |
John Nolan |
|
Richard T. Jones |
Wade Grey |
|
Alyssa Diaz |
Angela Lopez |
|
Eric Winter |
Tim Bradford |
|
Melissa O’Neil |
Lucy Chen |
|
Mekia Cox |
Nyla Harper |
|
Shawn Ashmore |
Wesley Evers |
|
Jenna Dewan |
Bailey Nune |
|
Lisseth Chavez |
Celina Juarez |
|
Deric Augustine |
Miles Penn |
|
Patrick Kelehe |
Seth Ridley |
Finding a mentor like Nolan—who demonstrated the ability to connect with and teach Connor effectively—stands as a crucial factor in the latter’s development. Connor also injects a fresh narrative dynamic into The Rookie, thanks to his intriguing background. Nonetheless, the decision by Grey to reassign him is puzzling, leaving many fans hoping for his return. Actor David Gridley’s character could still logically re-enter the narrative as Nolan’s next rookie if the show decides to continue developing these characters.
Will Connor Return to The Rookie?
The Current Status of Connor
As the resolution of Season 7, Episode 12 suggests, there is little expectation for Connor’s immediate return. ABC has yet to announce any casting decisions regarding David Gridley for subsequent episodes, indicating the possibility that Connor may be written out for good. However, should the storyline warrant it, there remains potential for Connor to be reintegrated as Nolan’s rookie, as having been reassigned twice would easily allow for a third transfer without disrupting the narrative flow.