Unfortunately, fans will have to wait longer than normal forThe Rookieseason 8, but on the bright side, a recent development could help the show in the long run. The series typically has four-month hiatuses between seasons.The Rookie’s seasonsusually end in the spring and return in the fall. However, that won’t be the case for season 8.
The Rookieseason 8 will consist of 18 episodes.
The Rookiealso veered off course with season 7, as it premiered in winter 2025 instead of fall 2024. Now, season 8 is following suit. AfterThe Rookieseason 7 endedin May 2025, the show began a (presumably) eight-month hiatus.Season 8 isn’t expected to arrive until early 2026,likely in January. While the wait is long, a new update alleviates the frustration.
All 7 Seasons Of The Rookie Will Be Available On Free TV
The Rookie Is Coming To UPtv
According toParade, all seven seasons ofThe Rookiehave come to UPtv, a basic cable TV channel.Before, the only way to watch the police procedural was either on ABC or Hulu via subscription.Now, though, UPtv has secured the license for everyepisode ofThe Rookie. Starting on July 19, 2025, those with access to UPtv can watch reruns of the show.
This is major news forThe Rookie’s reach. Sincethe cop show airson ABC and ABC is owned by Disney, the only other way to watch it was via Hulu (which Disney also owns) or to pay for the seasons and/or episodes on other services (like Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, etc.).So, withThe Rookie’s addition to UPtv, more people can now watch it.
The Rookie Being Available On Free TV Can Help It Broaden Its Reach
The Rookie Is Reaching A Larger Audience
Not everyone has access to Huluor can tune in tonew episodes ofThe Rookieevery Tuesday night while it’s airing. Consequently, those people are discouraged from watching the ABC police procedural TV series in its entirety. However, now there’s another way to accessThe Rookieand catch up on all its episodes, which significantly broadens the show’s reach.
By reaching a larger audience,The Rookie’s success can grow.Perhaps its ratings will grow. Plus, its addition to UPtv softens the blow felt byABC’s decision to delayThe Rookieseason 8to midseason on the 2025–2026 schedule. It’ll be easier for new and old fans to watch the series, helping pass the time until season 8 premieres in early 2026.
So, while it might be frustrating to some that they have to wait about eight months forThe Rookieseason 8, the delay will seemingly be worth it.
So, while it might be frustrating to some that they have to wait about eight months forThe Rookieseason 8, the delay will seemingly be worth it. For starters, it gives the writers more time to perfect the story. It also allows more people to catch up onThe Rookie’s first seven seasons, either via Hulu or UPtv.
