The Rookie universe is expanding in a major way, with New York Comic Con bringing confirmation of crossovers for the upcoming spinoff The Rookie: North and new guest stars for the original show’s ninth season.
Entertainment Weekly reports that creator Alexi Hawley confirmed Nathan Fillion, Melissa O’Neil and Eric Winter will appear in the Washington-set spinoff. Teaser footage shown at the panel included Fillion’s John Nolan FaceTiming new lead Jay Ellis.
The Rookie franchise crosses over
The crossover plans will give viewers an immediate connection between the original Los Angeles series and The Rookie: North. Ellis leads the new show, while familiar faces from the flagship series will help establish the shared universe.
The Comic Con panel also brought casting news for The Rookie Season 9. Dulé Hill will guest star as a new watch commander, while Troian Bellisario will play Stevie, a single mother who becomes a new LAPD rookie under Nolan’s mentorship.
Both shows arrive in January
Bellisario previously directed an episode of The Rookie, making her on-screen role a notable return to the franchise in a different capacity.
The Rookie Season 9 and The Rookie: North are scheduled to premiere on January 6, 2027, giving ABC a coordinated launch for the expanding franchise.
Source: Entertainment Weekly, October 11, 2026.