Spoilers Ahead
As fans hit play, they are filled with suspense and excitement as they’re reunited with the familiar faces of the LAPD officers. “The Rookie” aired the first episode of Season 8 on Jan. 6 at 10 p.m. EST, with new episodes following the same release schedule on Monday nights.
Season 8 begins with members of the LAPD Mid-Wilshire Division, including John Nolan, Bailey Nune and Nyla Harper, arriving in Prague to assist the FBI in taking down weapons traffickers. This expands the storyline beyond Los Angeles and adds a fresh direction to the plot.
The situations these officers face this season are unlike anything before, as they work in high-pressure operations alongside the FBI. So far, the season has been well put together, with clean and entertaining storylines. The plot isn’t bland, and the character arcs are well-developed.
Aaron Thorsen makes his return to the show, assisting the FBI and LAPD task force. Alongside him, Seth Ridley makes an unexpected comeback as he tries to amend his past wrongdoings. His return is somewhat confusing, as he left the show in a negative light and reappears rather abruptly.
The Valentine’s Day episode was a fan favorite as it highlighted Tim and Lucy’s relationship. After ending Season 7 on a cliffhanger, the pair have made significant progress by moving in together, and Lucy finally meets Tim’s mom.
Although viewers finally get to see one of the most anticipated couples together, there is trouble in paradise for Nolan and Nune. Earlier this season Bailey recieved for an unexpected job offer, leaving John behind. This situation has fans putting themselves into the couple’s shoes to feel the pros and cons of Bailey’s job offer in Washington, D.C.
While viewers watch the characters’ relationships evolve, they also seeing characters develop in personal ways. The show has now expanded so that viewers see how their jobs affect them individually.
As the credits rolled, signaling the first half of the season was finished, it remained uncertain how the next episode would unfold. Viewers were given a glimpse into upcoming drama. Episode 10 will premiere March 9 on Hulu and ABC.
