Directed by Liz Friedlander (pilot episode).
The Rookie premiered on October 16, 2018.
Distributed by the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) in the United States.
Series Review
The Rookie delivers a fresh take on crime drama by following John Nolan, a middle-aged man starting over as a rookie cop in the LAPD.
Nathan Fillion leads with charm, seamlessly blending humor and heroism, while the supporting cast deepens the emotional core.
Across its seasons, the show balances fast-paced action with heartfelt moments, exploring complex themes like trust, justice, and second chances.
What sets it apart is its character development and realism—viewers get a raw, gritty look into daily police life, while still enjoying a narrative full of heart.
It’s procedural drama with a personal touch.
Whether you’re in for thrilling chases or character-driven plots, The Rookie makes every episode count.
Ratings
• Rotten Tomatoes (Season 1): 68%
• Metacritic: 64/100
• IMDb: 8.0/10
• Google Audience Score: 91% liked this show
The Rookie Actors
Nathan Fillion as John Nolan
DOB: March 27, 1971
Bio: Nathan Fillion is a Canadian-American actor celebrated for his charm and wit.
With a career spanning cult favorites to mainstream TV hits, he has become synonymous with charismatic leadership on screen.
Season(s): Main cast from Season 1 to the present
Role: As John Nolan, Fillion stars as the veteran rookie officer whose unexpected career restart and life experiences provide wisdom and humor to the Los Angeles Police Department.
What to Expect: Expect a dynamic performance that blends seasoned authority with lighthearted quips and heartfelt moments of mentoring.
Favorite Things: Fillion is an avid fan of science fiction, often indulges in video games, and enjoys spending time outdoors through hiking and community activities.
Notable Works: Firefly, Castle, One Life to Live.
Richard T. Jones as Wade Grey
DOB: January 16, 1972
Bio: An experienced actor with an authoritative screen presence, Richard T. Jones has built a reputation for portraying strong, reliable characters in both TV and film.
Season(s): Featured in every season since the series began
Role: Wade Grey is a high-ranking sergeant providing guidance and strict oversight to the rookies.
His tough yet fair approach sets the tone for the series’ law enforcement drama.
What to Expect: A performance marked by gravitas and nuanced humor as he juggles personal integrity with the demands of the job.
Favorite Things: Jones enjoys classic cinema, mentoring younger actors, and engaging in thoughtful discussions about social issues.
Notable Works: The Wood, A Question of Faith, Lockdown.
Eric Winter as Tim Bradford
DOB: July 17, 1976
Bio: Eric Winter is an American actor whose diverse roles have showcased his ability to infuse both intensity and subtle humor into his characters.
Season(s): Appearing throughout the series from Season 1 onward
Role: As Tim Bradford, Winter plays a strict training officer whose tough exterior masks a deeper, more empathetic side—a mentor who challenges the rookies to grow.
What to Expect: A performance that oscillates between stern discipline and moments of quiet vulnerability.
Favorite Things: Winter is passionate about music, enjoys collecting vinyl, and loves outdoor sports.
Notable Works: Days of Our Lives, The Mentalist, Witches of East End.
Shawn Ashmore as Wesley Evers
DOB: October 7, 1979
Bio: Shawn Ashmore is a Canadian actor known for his versatility across genres.
He brings both intensity and an approachable warmth to his roles.
Season(s): Main cast from Season 2 onward
Role: Wesley Evers is a key supporting character, serving as a defense attorney and the husband of Angela Lopez, whose personal journey adds complexity to the law-and-order narrative.
What to Expect: Ashmore’s portrayal will offer a mix of gravitas and tenderness, capturing the challenges of balancing career and personal life in the modern legal system.
Favorite Things: He enjoys playing hockey, exploring new film projects, and engaging in charity basketball events.
Notable Works: X-Men series, The Following, The Boys.
Jenna Dewan as Bailey Nune
DOB: December 3, 1980
Bio: Jenna Dewan is an accomplished American actress and dancer whose fluid style and energetic performances have made her a standout in both film and television.
Season(s): Joined as a main cast member from Season 3 onward
Role: Bailey Nune is portrayed as a dedicated firefighter with a strong moral compass and an intriguing personal storyline that intertwines with the department’s challenges.
What to Expect: Expect a performance that balances vulnerability with resilience, bringing depth and human warmth to the fast-paced world of emergency services.
Favorite Things: Dewan enjoys dance, fitness, and exploring various creative outlets such as choreography and directing small projects.
Notable Works: Step Up, Supergirl, several high-profile dance performances on TV
Mekia Cox as Nyla Harper
DOB: November 18, 1981
Bio: Mekia Cox is an American actress and dancer known for her versatility and captivating presence on screen.
Season(s): Prominently featured from Season 2 onward
Role: Nyla Harper is a former undercover agent turned detective who brings a unique blend of street smarts and technical expertise to the LAPD.
What to Expect: A portrayal marked by strong dramatic moments and subtle humor as she balances her challenging past with her role in the present team.
Favorite Things: Cox enjoys rhythmic dance, urban art, and community advocacy, often participating in local cultural events.
Notable Works: Chicago Med, 90210, Secrets and Lies.
Alyssa Diaz as Angela Lopez
DOB: September 7, 1985
Bio: Alyssa Diaz is an American actress with extensive TV experience known for her captivating performances and commanding screen presence.
Season(s): Main cast from Season 1 to the present
Role: Angela Lopez begins the series as a Police Officer III / Training Officer mentoring Jackson West. In Season 3 she earns her detective’s shield, bringing the same intellect and drive to major-case investigations.
What to Expect: Angela’s journey is a blend of raw determination, professional scrutiny, and heartfelt moments, making her one of the series’ most relatable characters.
Favorite Things: Fitness and wellness (often shares gym routines), community volunteering, and exploring new cultures when her schedule allows.
Notable Works: Army Wives, Ray Donovan, Zoo.
Melissa O’Neil as Lucy Chen
DOB: July 12, 1988
Bio: Melissa O’Neil is a Canadian actress and singer who rose to prominence after winning Canadian Idol and transitioning into television acting.
Season(s): Main cast from Season 1 onward
Role: Lucy Chen is depicted as a diligent and evolving rookie striving to find her place within the LAPD, navigating both professional obstacles and personal growth.
What to Expect: Her character’s journey is one of resilience and discovery, with O’Neil’s performance highlighting both the vulnerabilities and ambitions of a young officer in training.
Favorite Things: O’Neil enjoys music, community theater, and exploring diverse culinary experiences.
Notable Works: Dark Matter, stage productions, and her influential role on The Rookie.
Lisseth Chavez as Celina Juarez
DOB: May 25, 1989
Bio: Lisseth Chavez is an American actress of Latino descent known for her vibrant energy and dedication to authentic storytelling.
Season(s): Transitioned from recurring in Season 5 to a main cast role from Season 6 onward
Role: As Celina Juarez, Chavez portrays a rookie officer whose personal drive is fueled by a desire to seek justice after a family tragedy, bringing a fresh perspective to the team.
What to Expect: Expect an impassioned performance characterized by tenacity and empathy, as Celina navigates the challenges of law enforcement.
Favorite Things: Chavez is enthusiastic about community activism, dancing, and exploring modern art.
Notable Works: Prior roles in Chicago P.D. and various stage productions that showcased her dynamic range.
Tru Valentino as Aaron Thorsen
DOB: December 8, 1988
Bio: Tru Valentino is an American actor and comedian who emerged from improv theater to build a diverse career in television and voice acting.
Season(s): Recurring in Season 4; promoted to main cast in Seasons 5–6
Role: Aaron Thorsen is a former reality TV star with a complicated past who joins the LAPD in search of redemption and a new beginning, adding an unconventional twist to the show’s narrative.
What to Expect: Valentino’s character provides humor and unexpected depth, as his persona evolves from celebrity outsider to a dedicated officer with personal demons to overcome.
Favorite Things: He enjoys improvisational comedy, music production, and participating in creative voice projects.
Notable Works: Voice roles in animated series, appearances on comedy specials, and guest spots on various TV comedies.
More Actors
Former Main Cast:
• Titus Makin Jr. as Jackson West (Seasons 1–3)
• Mercedes Mason as Zoe Andersen (Season 1; guest in Season 3)
• Afton Williamson as Talia Bishop (Season 1)
Notable Recurring and Guest Stars:
• Danny Nucci as Sanford Motta
• Shawn Christian as Jeremy Hawke
• Joelle Carter as Megan Mitchell
• Niko Nicotera as Carson Miller
• Jose Pablo Cantillo as Franco DeSantis
• Beau Garrett as Denise
• Sean Maher as Caleb Jost
• Mario Lopez as himself
• Joel McHale as Brad Hayes
• Jim Lau as Patrick Chen
• will.i.am as himself
• Stephen Lang as Trent Williams
• Felicia Day as Dr. Morgan
• Mark Cuban as himself
• Mitch Pileggi as Rex
• Seamus Dever as Chaz Bachman
• Jon Huertas as Alejandro Mejia / Cesar Ojeda
• Lauren Tom as Mrs. Chen
• Eric Weddle as himself
• Robert Woods as himself
• Alan Tudyk as Ellroy Basso
• Michael Cassidy as Caleb Wright
• Pete Davidson as Pete Nolan
• Seth Green as Jordan Neil
• Greg Grunberg as Larry Macer
• Roselyn Sánchez as Valerie Castillo
• Ryan Seacrest as himself
• Katy Perry as herself
• Luke Bryan as himself
• Lionel Richie as himself
• Bailey Chase as Michael Banks
• Don Swayze as Sharp
• Hannah Kasulka as Erin Cole
• Christopher O’Shea as Chris Rios
• Armin Shimerman as Judge Paloma
• Frances Fisher as Evelyn Nolan
• Frankie Muniz as Corey Harris
• Skyler Samuels as Charlotte Luster
• Rainn Wilson as himself
• Molly Quinn as Ashley
• Katy O’Brian as Katie Barnes
• Emily Deschanel as Sarah Nolan
• Kyle Secor as Sam Taggart
• Joshua Malina as Max
• Tricia Helfer as Claire Ivey
• Kathryn Prescott as Katerina Antonov / Linda Charles
• Piper Curda as Billie Park
• Peter Onorati as Jerry McGrady
• Helena Mattsson as Ashley McGrady
• Peyton List as Genny Bradford
• James Remar as Tom Bradford
• Flula Borg as Skip Tracer Randy
FAQ – The Rookie
How many seasons and episodes does The Rookie have?
As of April 2025, The Rookie has aired 7 seasons, comprising a total of 144 episodes.
Is The Rookie based on a true story?
Yes, the show is inspired by the real-life experiences of LAPD officer William Norcross, who joined the department in his mid-40s.
Where can I watch The Rookie?
Episodes are available for streaming on Hulu and ABC’s official website.
Is there a spin-off series?
Yes, a spin-off titled The Rookie: Feds premiered on September 27, 2022, focusing on FBI agents.
Are there any notable changes in the cast or characters?
In Season 7, fans noticed significant developments in character dynamics, particularly regarding John Nolan and Bailey Nune’s relationship.
Conclusion
The Rookie stands out in the crime drama genre by offering a refreshing blend of action and personal growth.
Nathan Fillion’s portrayal of John Nolan brings depth and relatability, making him a standout protagonist in a genre often dominated by younger, more experienced characters.
The show successfully balances high-stakes police work with moments of humor and vulnerability, keeping viewers engaged throughout its run.
As it continues to evolve, The Rookie remains a compelling watch, combining tense crime-solving with the emotional journey of its diverse characters.
Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas or looking for a character-driven story, The Rookie delivers on all fronts.