Showrunner Explains Major Character Departure in The Rookie Season 7

After a six-month break, The Rookie is set to return for its seventh season on ABC on Tuesday, January 7. However, this new season will be marked by a significant change: Tru Valentino will not reprise his role as Officer Aaron Thorsen, a character he has embodied since season 4. This news has disappointed many fans who appreciated his seamless integration into the show’s established group dynamics.

In a recent interview with ScreenRant, showrunner Alexi Hawley addressed the possibility of Aaron returning to the series in the future. He emphasized that Valentino’s departure was not indicative of any issues with the actor’s performance, but rather a necessary shift in the show’s creative direction. Hawley expressed a strong desire to welcome Valentino back, provided the opportunity aligns with the show’s evolving narrative. Below is his complete statement:

ScreenRant: We know Aaron is not in the upcoming episodes. Is there any chance that he could return to the show down the line?

Alexi Hawley: Of course. Tru [Valentino] is a great actor, and he was a huge part of our show for several seasons, and so we’d love to have him back in some capacity. It just ultimately felt like, creatively, for where the show was going, that we needed to pivot a bit. But he’s still very much alive in our universe.

Prospects for Aaron’s Future in The Rookie

A Likely Return on the Horizon

While Aaron’s return may not be imminent, his character remains alive within the Royce Universe, keeping the door open for future storylines. The show’s recent trend of integrating characters from the canceled The Rookie: Feds illustrates its flexibility. As viewers anticipate season 7, it’s possible that Valentino will share scenes with the Mid-Wilshire team once again, especially if the timing is right.

The premiere episode of season 7 is titled “The Shot,”adding to the excitement surrounding its return.

The Impact of Valentino’s Exit in The Rookie Season 7

Cherished Relationships Developed

The main characters of The Rookie including Aaron, Lucy, and Tim

Aaron Thorsen’s journey began under tragic circumstances, following the death of Jackson, making his acceptance into the team a challenge. Yet, with his caring demeanor and comedic spirit, he provided much-needed levity during a difficult time for the series. Throughout his tenure, Aaron built strong connections with the main cast, most notably sharing a special bond with Celina that greatly enhanced both characters’ narratives.

No matter who he interacted with, Aaron could adapt, serving as both a confidante and a source of humor. His absence in the upcoming season will undoubtedly be felt by the characters and the audience alike, marking a significant shift in the show’s ensemble dynamic.

Be sure to catch The Rookie season 7 premiere on Tuesday, January 7, at 10 p.m. ET on ABC.

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