ABC Orders Pilot for “The Rookie: North” Spinoff
ABC has officially greenlit a pilot for the highly anticipated spinoff of the popular series “The Rookie,” titled “The Rookie: North.” The network has also announced that Jay Ellis has been cast in the lead role for the project, which has been in development since December 2024. The show has been making steady progress towards a pilot order and is generating a lot of buzz among fans of the original series.
The logline for “The Rookie: North” reveals that the show will follow the journey of Alex Holland, played by Ellis, as he embarks on a new chapter in his life. After a violent incident prompts him to reevaluate his purpose, Alex decides to join the Pierce County Police Department as the oldest rookie on the force. From policing the urban coast to the rural forest, Alex must navigate the challenges of law enforcement with limited backup and prove himself to his colleagues and to himself.
The pilot will be written, executive produced, and directed by Alexi Hawley, the creator of “The Rookie.” Nathan Fillion, who stars in the original series, will also serve as an executive producer alongside Mark Gordon, Bill Norcross, and Michelle Chapman. Ellis will not only star in the show but also take on a producing role. The series will be produced by Lionsgate Television and 20th Television.
“The Rookie” has already been renewed for an eighth season, set to premiere in January 2026. If “The Rookie: North” gets picked up for a full series, it will mark the second spinoff of the original show. ABC previously launched “The Rookie: Feds,” starring Niecy Nash-Betts, but the series was canceled after one season in 2023.
Jay Ellis is a familiar face to television audiences, known for his roles in “Insecure” on HBO and “The Game” on BET. He currently stars in the Netflix series “Running Point” and recently appeared in the Peacock drama “All Her Fault.” Ellis will also be featured in Mindy Kaling’s upcoming Hulu comedy series “Not Suitable for Work.” His film credits include roles in “Top Gun: Maverick” and “Freaky Tales.”
Ellis is represented by UTA, Entertainment 360, The Lede Company, and Hansen Jacobson, while Hawley is represented by The Shuman Company and Hansen Jacobson.
