ABC’s New ‘The Rookie’ Spin-Off Announces Its Star

ABC is officially moving forward with a new spin-off of its hit series The Rookie. The new show, titled The Rookie: North, has received a pilot order from the network. Jay Ellis, known for his role in Top Gun: Maverick, has been cast as the lead.

The project was first reported to be in development at ABC in December 2024 and has steadily progressed toward a pilot since then.

The show follows Alex Holland, played by Ellis, a man who never expected his mid-life to hold adventure. After a violent home invasion sparks a new sense of purpose, Alex joins the Pierce County Police Department as its oldest rookie.

According to the official logline, Alex must navigate policing in both urban and rural areas, proving himself to his skeptical training officer, his fellow rookies, and himself.

Alexi Hawley, the creator of The Rookie, will write, direct, and executive produce the pilot. Nathan Fillion, star of the original series, will also executive produce along with Mark Gordon, Bill Norcross, and Michelle Chapman. Ellis will produce in addition to starring. The series is being produced by Lionsgate Television and 20th Television.

The original series, The Rookie, was renewed for an eighth season earlier this year, set to premiere on January 6, 2026. If The Rookie: North is picked up for a full series, it will be the second spin-off from the franchise. The first spin-off, The Rookie: Feds starring Niecy Nash-Betts, aired for one season in 2023 before being canceled.

The Rookie: North is set in Washington state and centers on a man starting a second act in his life as a police officer. Casting began in July under the working title The Rookie: North. It was briefly delayed in September to allow more time for script development and to secure a well-known lead. Filming is expected to begin in early 2026.

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