TV Show review
Review basis: 9 seasons · through May 4, 2026
October 16, 2018 · TV-14 · Returning Series
Woke Score
Lower is better
Review
The Rookie follows John Nolan, a middle-aged former construction worker who joins the LAPD as its oldest rookie after a life-changing event and works cases with a team of officers while balancing personal challenges. Across nine seasons the series mixes episodic crime stories with character growth, romances, and team dynamics in modern Los Angeles. Starting in season 3 the show added storylines about racism in policing, systemic bias, and accountability, including a racist training officer and community activist arcs. The ensemble cast features a natural multiracial and gender mix that fits the city setting, with several strong female officers in lead positions.
Breakdown
These are the editorial factors and ratings behind our score for The Rookie.
Woke representation / casting
Multiracial ensemble and balanced gender mix that matches Los Angeles demographics; competent women and minority officers in prominent roles; fits the modern urban police setting naturally with no forced legacy changes or mismatches.
Woke political dialogue
Occasional character debates on racism, bias, and police practices, especially in season 3; woven into cases rather than heavy standalone lectures but clearly tied to real-world identity conversations.
Identity-driven story themes
Recurring arcs on Black officers’ experiences, women navigating male-dominated policing, and racial dynamics in law enforcement; heightened after 2020 with specific character conflicts around identity.
Western institutional / cultural critique
Depictions of systemic racism, difficulty removing bad cops, and community distrust framed through modern accountability lenses in season 3 onward; balanced with heroic officers but includes explicit institutional flaws.
Woke character or canon changes
Not relevant.
Anti-woke backlash and complaints
Clear viewer complaints on forums and videos about season 3 and later episodes pushing race-focused policing reform and diversity themes as preachy or agenda-driven.
Creator track record context
Alexi Hawley actively promotes inclusion and adjusted storytelling for social issues around institutions; Glen Mazzara has industry diversity leadership; several cast and crew bring progressive or representation-focused work.
Production
