The Rookie season 8 is already in production despite not premiering until 2026, and I’m convinced that I know why. ABC’s hit cop show from Alexi Hawley is going strong for the network, being one of the most-watched shows during the 2024-2025 TV cycle. So, it’s doubly frustrating that it won’t return with new episodes until next year.
For what it’s worth, ABC’s 2025-2026 scripted show schedule is pretty much a repeat of what it did last year. The decision to do similar programming stems from its successful last cycle. The Rookie season 8 is joining Will Trent season 4 for a mid-season premiere, while other notable shows like Grey’s Anatomy and Abbott Elementary premiere in the fall.
It’s understandable that ABC isn’t making massive changes to its schedule, considering the success that it enjoyed during the 2024-2025 rotation. What’s interesting is that The Rookie season 8 started filming before even shows that will debut this fall despite not premiering until 2026. Luckily, I have likely figured out why.
The Rookie Season 8 Has Been In Production Despite Its 2026 Premiere
For a few months now, The Rookie has already been filming season 8. Various photos and videos from the set have confirmed that the main cast will all be back for its upcoming run. The behind-the-scenes content has offered fans a sneak peek of what to expect from the show when it finally premieres sometime in the first quarter of 2026.
Admittedly, the earliest filming images for The Rookie season 8 came from its filming period in Prague during the summer. It has already been confirmed that the premiere of the ABC procedural will be set in the European city. Plot specifics are scant about what it will be about, but the involvement of Monica suggests that it has to do with the hunt for her.
The Rookie Spinoff Is Scheduled To Film In Late Winter Or Early Spring
While filming during summer overseas also likely impacted the decision to start production early for The Rookie season 8, there’s a different reason why it’s better for it to get going on its filming. As confirmed by Hawley, they are looking to begin shooting the next The Rookie spinoff sometime in the late winter or spring.
Since Hawley is also overseeing The Rookie: North, it makes sense that he and the crew want to get as much work down for the mothership before it starts airing episodes this upcoming mid-season. That way, he can devote the majority of his time and effort to making sure that the next network TV sitcom spinoff.
Currently, it’s unclear if The Rookie: North will film on-location in Seattle. If it does, then it would require more intensive work for Hawley and his team. At the very least, the offshoot might shoot the premiere in the Pacific Northwest. By then, ABC can be sure that The Rookie season 8 has enough episodes to run while Hawley is deep into launching his new venture.
Enjoy ScreenRant’s primetime coverage? Click below to sign up for my weekly Network TV newsletter (make sure to check “Network TV” in your preferences) and get the inside scoop from actors and showrunners on your favorite series.
SIGN UP NOW!
