The Rookie Season 7 finale proves why John Nolan isn’t cut out for robbery-homicide

The Rookie
The Rookie Season 7 concluded (Image Source: Instagram @therookieabc)

John Nolan's experience in The Rookie has neither been easy nor typical. His journey in the series as the oldest rookie in the LAPD gave him experience and an outlook unlike that of any other beginner.

After getting on the force, Nolan had the desire to join RHD, not just for the prestige, but to take on high-profile cases and find closure for families. However, throughout the last seven seasons, his path has changed, and he has started to find the areas where he works best as a police officer.

"The Good, The Bad, and The Oscar," The Rookie Season 7 finale, highlights this contrast and provides some evidence of why Nolan truly needs to be away from RHD and from high-profile cases.

Keep reading to explore how the last episode of the latest season explains why becoming a part of the RHD wouldn't have worked well for Nolan.


The Rookie Season 7 finale shows why Nolan doesn't belong in a detective’s shoes

As seen in The Rookie Season 7 finale, Nolan temporarily holds the rank of Detective I for a 48-hour assignment to assist in the pursuit of escaped convict Oscar Hutchinson. Nolan believes in his instincts that Oscar may be going to meet an old accomplice to retrieve hidden diamonds from evidence for his previous crimes.

When Nolan expresses his theory to the police department officers and his captain, he is readily dismissed. But Lieutenant Grey is eager to allow Nolan to use his instincts, and asked whether he was comfortable going with Harper.

As the case progresses, the investigation confirms Nolan's theory when Oscar Hutchinson kidnaps him in order to get the stolen gems. Though Harper and a witness using a drone manage to rescue him, the incident exposes the dangers and unpredictability inherent in detective work.

This experience starkly contrasts with Nolan's strengths, emphasizing that his skills are better utilized in roles that prioritize mentorship and guidance over high-stakes investigations in The Rookie. So, he clearly doesn't belong to the RHD division.

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Nolan embraced his decision to become a mentor and leader in The Rookie

A glimpse into the finale (Image Source: Instagram @therookieabc)
A glimpse into the finale (Image Source: Instagram @therookieabc)

Nolan's decision to be a field training officer (FTO) in The Rookie demonstrates his capabilities and where he can do the best. After receiving a golden ticket from the LAPD, Nolan was allowed to choose any position within the department. So, he opts for the FTO role over a coveted spot in RHD in the fifth chapter of the series.

This shows Nolan is committed to helping train the next generation of officers. He can mentor rookies like Celina Juarez and Seth Ridley to pass on knowledge, confidence and guide them through the complexities of police work.

His compassion as a mentor, along with his real-world experience and knowledge, makes him a tremendous partner in the training position function. Not only this, Nolan could also have a positive impact on the culture and how well the department functions in the TV series.

So, the Season 7 finale of The Rookie is a key moment for John Nolan’s career. It shows that he’s better suited for teaching and leading others, rather than chasing dangerous robbery-homicide cases.

Throughout the show, Nolan’s experiences and especially his brief time as a detective make it clear that knowing your strengths and following the right path matters. Instead of being a detective, he finds his true purpose as a field training officer, where he can make the biggest difference by using his skills and heart.


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Edited by Alisha Khan