The Rookie Season 7 Reveals a Tough Reality for Nolan

Spoiler alert: This article includes spoilers from season 7, episode 3 of The Rookie, titled “Out of Pocket.”

Throughout his journey on The Rookie, John Nolan, portrayed by Nathan Fillion, has demonstrated significant growth, yet his recent choices in season 7 reveal he still has much to learn. While he has transitioned from being just a rookie to a respected training officer, his latest actions raise questions about his judgment and the repercussions he should face for them.

Nolan’s Reckless Choices in Season 7, Episode 3

In the latest episode, Nolan’s preoccupation with his wife, Bailey (played by Jenna Dewan), intensifies as he prepares for her return to the series. His worries are channeled into installing an extensive security system in their home and attempting to track down a lethal assassin pursuing Bailey’s dangerous ex-husband. However, both tactics prove to be missteps. While the extravagant security measures veer into comedic territory, Nolan’s encounter with the assassin escalates into a perilous situation that warrants serious scrutiny.

The Importance of Leading by Example

Despite being a training officer, Nolan mirrors the reckless behavior of two new recruits, Seth and Miles, who join the LAPD amid ongoing challenges. When these rookies defy commands and recklessly rush into a hostage scenario, they face severe reprimands, narrowly escaping termination due to the high-profile outcome of their intervention. In contrast, Nolan later finds himself in a similarly dangerous predicament without backup, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. This incident not only results in a hostage being shot but also allows the assassin to escape, showcasing the dire implications of his choices.

Consequences are Necessary for Nolan’s Actions

While Seth and Miles received punishment in the form of writing “I will not go rogue, ” and were left on thin ice after their public rescue, Nolan faces no such consequences. His friends and colleagues focus on his safety, disregarding that he initiated the hazardous situation. Although he succeeds in keeping the wounded man alive, had he adhered to proper police protocols, the outcome could have been vastly different. The trauma inflicted on the hostage and the assassin’s escape highlight a failure in judgment that should not be overlooked.

The lack of accountability for Nolan’s actions raises concerns of “main character syndrome.”Rather than addressing the serious implications of his decision-making, the narrative quickly shifts back to comedic elements, seemingly rewarding him with Bailey’s early return. This approach diminishes the gravity of his errors and sets a troubling precedent for how consequences are meted out on the show. For The Rookie to maintain narrative integrity, consistency in holding characters accountable for their actions, like it did with Tim Bradford and his rookie partners, is essential.

The Rookie Season 7 Cast	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 Keleher	Seth Ridley

As the season progresses, it is crucial for the writers of The Rookie to address the lack of consequences for Nolan. Doing so would reinforce the message that all officers, regardless of their status, must be held accountable for their actions, promoting a culture of responsibility and professionalism within the LAPD.

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