The Rookie’s Nolan and Bailey Face Adoption Denial in Latest Episode

LOS ANGELES, CA – The ongoing storyline surrounding John Nolan and Bailey‘s struggle to adopt a child has reached a significant turning point in the latest episode of The Rookie. In Season 7, Episode 13, titled “Three Billboards,” the couple learns that their adoption application has been denied, primarily due to the dangers associated with Nolan’s career as a police officer.

During a meeting with a social worker, the couple is informed that, while they exhibit great character, the risks they face daily make them less suitable for adoption. This development leaves Nolan and Bailey heartbroken and questioning their future. “It’s just the sheer volume of near-death experiences that they both have on the daily,” said showrunner Alexi Hawley when addressing the situation. “We wanted to address the reality of their unique situation and the extreme danger the couple faces.”

Despite the denial, both characters have made peace with their current status as a couple without children. In an interview with ScreenRant, Hawley expressed, “I think they’ve come through it and have made their peace with the fact that it’s just the two of them for now.” His comments reflect the show’s tendency to leave avenues open for future storylines.

Nolan, portrayed by Nathan Fillion, and Bailey’s relationship has been central to the series since their first encounter. The couple began a romantic relationship in Season 4, but theirs has been a rocky road marked by significant challenges, including Bailey’s abusive ex-husband, Jason Wyler. Their commitment to each other has been tested repeatedly, especially in light of past traumas.

In the episode previous to the adoption denial, a confrontation with a hitman, Malvado, escalated tensions. While Bailey manages to keep her secrets safe following Malvado’s death, the trauma from her past relationships remains a central theme for her character.

Following the adoption motif, current fans and critics have praised the balance of realism and emotional depth present in the series, with Hawley stating, “That storyline was there to really show Bailey’s trauma with Jason on the loose and coming for her.” His acknowledgment of these themes highlights the need to portray the psychological impact of such situations, resonating with viewers who have had similar experiences.

The show continues to develop its characters in a thoughtful way, demonstrating how both personal and professional conflicts intertwine in their lives as first responders. The Rookie airs on Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on ABC, with episodes also available to stream on Hulu the following day. Fan engagement is expected to heighten as the finale approaches, with story threads still left open for further exploration.