Officer Nolan Has a New Beat

ABC has announced a major mid-season schedule change. The Rookie, the hit procedural starring Nathan Fillion, is moving from its comfortable Tuesday slot to Mondays at 8 PM.

Why the Move?

Monday nights are competitive. They are usually dominated by reality shows (The Voice) or heavy hitters like NCIS. Moving The Rookie there signals confidence. ABC believes the show's loyal fanbase will follow it, and that its lighthearted tone is a perfect counter-programming to the grittier procedurals on CBS.

Season 8 So Far

The show is currently in a creative high. Season 8 has finally officiated the romance between Tim Bradford and Lucy Chen ("Chenford"), giving fans exactly what they wanted. It has also promoted Sgt. Grey, shaking up the precinct dynamics.

Will Ratings Hold?

Historically, moving a show in its 8th season is risky (the "death slot" theory). However, The Rookie performs exceptionally well on streaming (Hulu/Disney+). Live ratings matter less than they used to. This move is likely about shoring up ABC's Monday lineup rather than "saving" the show.

Set your DVRs. Monday is about to get arrested.

The Rookie airs Mondays on ABC.