ABC’s The Rookie Season 8 to Premiere in January 2026

LOS ANGELES, CA — ABC‘s police drama, The Rookie, will return for a highly anticipated Season 8, scheduled to air in January 2026. Showrunner Alexi Hawley confirmed this news after the series wrapped up its Season 7 finale on May 13, 2025.

The show continues to captivate audiences with its mix of drama and humor, led by Nathan Fillion as John Nolan, alongside a talented cast that includes Jenna Dewan, Alyssa Diaz, and Melissa O'Neil. Hawley hinted that this upcoming season will feature a cliffhanger that will leave the audience eager for the next installment.

Although fans are excited about the new season, they will have to wait a bit longer, as the show will not appear in the fall 2025 lineup. ABC made the strategic choice to keep The Rookie for a midseason premiere, similar to the previous season’s successful schedule. Disney Television President Craig Erwich noted that this decision is intended to create momentum by airing episodes without lengthy breaks.

The Season 7 finale episode, titled ‘The Good, the Bad, and the Oscar,’ features intense storylines including John Nolan and Nyla Harper working together to apprehend a notorious criminal. The finale promises to leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

With the current season gaining popularity and the network confirming the series’ return, Hawley expressed optimism about a potential spinoff set to explore new storylines and characters. While he remains hopeful for expansion within The Rookie universe, he highlighted the show’s unique appeal lies in its unpredictable nature.

This year’s season further developed the personal journeys of its characters. Hawley revealed that John Nolan and Bailey Nune will face challenges in their quest to start a family, a narrative that addresses the complexities faced by police officers.

With the promise of thrilling new chapters ahead, fans eagerly await the return of The Rookie and the surprises it will bring in 2026.