“The Rookie” has made its highly anticipated return after a six-month break, but fans are likely feeling a mix of shock and sadness with the absence of a beloved character. Tru Valentino’s portrayal of Officer Aaron Thorsen, who became a series regular in Seasons 5 and 6, is no longer part of the show after his exit in August 2024. Although his departure lacked dramatic flair, the finale of Season 6 served as his last appearance.
However, the Season 7 premiere hints at a potential return for Officer Thorsen. During a subdued moment in the episode, John Nolan, played by Nathan Fillion, inquires about Thorsen’s well-being. Celina Juarez, portrayed by Lisseth Chavez, shares that he is now stationed in North Hollywood, feeling content and discreet about his previous counseling by Dr. Blair London.
For fans hoping for Thorsen’s comeback, there is a silver lining: he remains active in law enforcement and still resides in Los Angeles, just a few miles from the Mid-Wilshire precinct. The implication suggests that he may have opted for a change of scenery following the tumultuous fallout from the corruption scandal that affected the LAPD, which had serious consequences for many officers.
Valentino’s exit was motivated by a desire for new opportunities, as expressed through his social media, where he reflected positively on his time with the show. He noted his fondness for the friendships developed during his tenure and hinted that fans should not count Thorsen out completely.
Series creator Alexi Hawley has also expressed optimism regarding Thorsen’s potential return, appreciating the actor’s contributions and acknowledging that existing storylines might allow for a comeback.
Fans can take heart in the fact that “The Rookie” continues to evolve, with the possibility of reviving familiar faces. The show airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and is available for streaming on Hulu the following day. This ongoing narrative allows for hope that Thorsen’s journey may intersect with the Mid-Wilshire Division once more, keeping audiences engaged with the evolving storyline.