Exciting Highlights from “The Rookie” Panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2023
At this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, fans gathered for an unforgettable panel featuring "The Rookie." The event was made even more special when actor Nathan Fillion was serenaded live on stage by Zander Hawley, captivating the audience in Ballroom 20. As the beloved series gears up for its highly anticipated Season 8, Fillion and showrunner Alexi Hawley shared insights into the show’s remarkable success and its ability to resonate with viewers of all ages, including families and young teens.
Nathan Fillion expressed his delight, saying, “I have friends who are talented actors, and they’re calling me up, saying, ‘Hey, my daughter just turned 11, and she and her friends are obsessed with “The Rookie.” Can we celebrate her birthday with you?’ I love that!” This illustrates the show’s impact and its strong connection with younger audiences.
Showrunner Alexi Hawley added, “Television, especially series with numerous episodes and relatable characters, has become a source of comfort for viewers. With thousands of shows available, people gravitate towards the ones they look forward to watching. It’s an escape for them. We take that responsibility seriously. While our show does delve into serious themes and challenges, it’s essential for viewers to see us as a reliable source of entertainment during turbulent times.”
As they look ahead to the upcoming season, Fillion and Hawley revealed that Season 8 is set to premiere in 2026. A thrilling sizzle reel showcased the LAPD’s exciting journey to Prague in the Season 8 opener. The footage highlighted both new and returning cast members while teasing the adventures awaiting John Nolan, portrayed by Fillion. “In the first episode, we travel to Prague, and [John] essentially becomes a James Bond-like character. We have a lot of thrilling stories lined up for the cast this season.”
Don’t miss out on the excitement surrounding "The Rookie"! Stay tuned for more updates as the countdown to Season 8 begins. Google TV proudly sponsors the Comic-Con Variety Studio, making this experience even more memorable for fans.
