When is 'The Rookie' airing? Premiere date for new Season 8 episodes on ABC

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It’s quite the week for network television.

On Sunday night, we crowned a new American Idol (congratulations, Jamal!), and tomorrow night (May 21) we’ll be forced to say goodbye to Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and Survivor as all four shows air their season finales.

On the bright side, ABC recently announced its upcoming primetime schedule for the fall 2025 season. The Chris O’Donnell-led 9-1-1 Nashville spinoff series will join 9-1-1 and Grey’s Anatomy on Thursday nights, while Wednesdays on ABC will feature two comedies (Shifting Gears and Abbott Elementary) and two reality shows (The Golden Bachelor and Shark Tank).

What about our old pal The Rookie? We have an update regarding the future of the beloved Nathan Fillion-led police procedural. There are more episodes on the way, but the show won’t be returning this fall. When exactly does The Rookie Season 8 debut on ABC? Here’s everything you need to know.

**Is The Rookie On Tonight (5/20/25)?**

Nope. The season finale of The Rookie aired Tuesday, May 13 on ABC. Tonight’s ABC primetime schedule consists of new episodes of Celebrity Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! Masters, followed by a rerun of The Game Show Show.

**How Many Episodes Are There of The Rookie Season 7?**

The seventh season consists of 18 total episodes.

**Will There Be A Season 8 of The Rookie On ABC?**

You bet! The Rookie is becoming a seasoned veteran. In April 2025, ABC renewed The Rookie for an eighth season. Per Deadline, the upcoming season is expected to consist of 18 episodes.

**When Does The Rookie Return With New Episodes On ABC?** The Rookie Season 8 Premiere Date:

Unfortunately, The Rookie isn’t on ABC’s fall schedule. Just like last season, the network is holding The Rookie and Will Trent for midseason. No official premiere dates have been announced, but both shows are expected to return in January 2026.