
Warning: Spoilers for The Rookie Season 7, Episode 5
In the latest episode of The Rookie, Season 7, Episode 5 titled “Til Death, ”Bailey’s troubling connection with the assassin Malvado has come to light. This revelation triggers a significant reaction from Nolan, which ironically amplifies his own missteps. The episode unfolds on two perilous fronts: Nyla confronts a suspected serial killer while Nolan and Bailey navigate the return of Bailey’s perilous ex-husband, Jason. The tension escalates dramatically when Jason abducts Bailey, leading her to take drastic measures that result in a car crash.
As the chaos ensues, Jason and his accomplice Drew attempt to escape the scene, but police backup, led by Nolan, is quick to respond. Despite his efforts to track Drew’s phone, Nolan’s pursuit proves unsuccessful as Malvado intervenes, terminating both Jason and Drew. The real plot twist, however, arises when Nolan discovers that Bailey was complicit with Malvado, leading to a complicated interplay of emotions and ethics.
Nolan’s Role in Jason’s Demise
Malvado’s Freedom Ties Back to Nolan’s Errors

Nolan’s dismay is understandable, given that his wife actively supported a fugitive and a known criminal. Legally speaking, Bailey could be viewed as an accessory to murder, which complicates Nolan’s emotional state. However, it’s crucial to recognize that Malvado’s freedom is inextricably linked to Nolan’s own misjudgments earlier in Season 7, Episode 3, “Out Of Pocket.”
During that episode, Nolan managed to trace Malvado’s vehicle and initially apprehended him. Unfortunately, he allowed the hitman to slip away while attending to a wounded bystander. If Nolan had adhered to protocol and called for backup, that individual could have received timely assistance, and Malvado would likely be in custody. Thus, Nolan’s choices initiated a chain reaction of disastrous events, including Bailey’s risky alliance with Malvado.
The Need for Nolan’s Accountability
Nolan Must Face Consequences for His Actions

As the season progresses, Nolan’s lack of accountability for his previous mistakes stands in stark contrast to the repercussions faced by fellow characters Seth and Miles, who nearly faced expulsion from the training program for similar rogue behavior. While Nolan did not overtly defy orders, his decision to act alone in a precarious situation blatantly disregarded established protocols. This reckless decision mirrors a past event involving Tim, who faced significant fallout for his actions, including a demotion and the loss of his relationship with Lucy Chen.
The Rookie Season 7 Actor | Character |
Nathan Fillion | John Nolan |
Richard T. Jones | Wade Grey |
Alyssa Diaz | Angela Lopez |
Eric Winter | Tim Bradford |
Melissa O’Neil | Lucy Chen |
Mayor Cox | Nyla Harper |
Shawn Ashmore | Wesley Evers |
Jenna Dewan | Bailey Nune |
Lisseth Chavez | Celina Juarez |
Deric Augustine | miles Penn |
Patrick Kelehe | Seth Ridley |
Nolan’s failure to receive any consequences, including a reprimand from Lieutenant Grey, will undoubtedly linger during future confrontations with Bailey. Despite his legal standpoint, Nolan’s forthcoming interactions with her may come across as insincere unless he acknowledges his own failings. It appears that The Rookie intends to overlook Nolan’s issues, which would be a missed opportunity for character development. Every central character deserves to grapple with flaws, allowing for growth and depth in their narratives, even at the cost of appearing morally superior.
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