Summary

• The Rookie's season 6 finale nicely sets up season 7 storylines.
• The loss of emotional depth in the finale may disappoint fans of the show.
• The stage is cleverly set for an important reconciliation between Tim and Lucy in future episodes.

Warning: SPOILERS for The Rookie Season 6 finaleThe Rookie season 6 officially came to a close on Tuesday, May 21 with an installment that, unsurprisingly, held my attention. Monica and Dr. London's storyline reaches its climax, as the defense attorney suspects that Blair may no longer be under her command. From Lucy’s high-speed car chase to Nolan’s team-up with the FBI in Argentina, “Escape Plan” is worth watching for the stunt work, alone. However, the episode focuses so heavily on its action sequences that it's lacking in the areas that are most meaningful.

Like many network television shows, ABC’s police procedural aired a shortened season following the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes. The writers had previously been able to devote multiple episodes to specific arcs, which is necessary for a series with such an intricate ensemble cast. It’s a difficult feat to do the same with only ten installments, as there must be room for the plot to progress outside the characters and relationships. Because of this, The Rookie is unable to elicit the range of emotions that fans have come to expect from a finale.

The Rookie Gives Away Its Twist Prior To The Finale

Episode 9 already revealed Oscar's plan to break out of prison

Several loose ends are left to tie up in The Rookie season 7, but one of the most pressing matters will inevitably be the prison break. Oscar has been a nuisance to Nolan and a source of comedy since first appearing in season 1, episode 15, "Manhunt." Given the large role he played while behind bars, there are plenty of exciting stories to explore now that the antagonist is no longer confined to a cell.

With Monica also on the run and Bailey in custody, Oscar's escape would have been the perfect finale shocker if the audience was unaware of his plan. While its success wasn't guaranteed, Rosalind Dyer taught fans not to underestimate the show's recurring villains. The news comes as a surprise to Nolan, but for viewers, it simply confirms what we already suspect. Although Jason's involvement was meant to add shock value, he's played such a minor role in the grand scheme of the show that it's hard to consider him a significant threat.

The Rookie has previously gone out with a bang each season, and despite its small episode order, it must be held to the high standards it's created for itself. Armstrong's set-up, Angela's abduction, and Chenford's first kiss were well-designed cliffhangers that made the wait between seasons feel impossibly long. Unfortunately, the season 6 finale misses the heart-dropping moment that leaves me pondering for months after the credits roll.

The Rookie Finale Cleverly Sets The Stage For An Important Reconciliation

Tim and Lucy's breakup in episode 6 was a necessary evil

Tim and Lucy were partners long before they were a couple, and the distance between them in the finale is palpable. Despite the pain it's caused both characters, letting go of Lucy is the only thing that could push Tim to seek the help he's needed since the pilot. Dr. London's incarceration doesn't diminish the progress Tim has made, as opening himself up is a significant sign of growth.

The drastic measures Lucy takes to save Tim showcase the unconditional love she has for the sergeant. They may not be together when the episode ends, but the former rookie and training officer duo are still an important part of each other's lives.

Tim and Lucy's indisputable feelings will likely pave the way for an exciting future plotline that will bring their six years of build-up full-circle.

Overall, the season 6 finale of The Rookie is, by no means, a bad installment. ABC's police procedural creates a sense of weekly anticipation through its layered characters and carefully cultivated relationships, and I hope to be satisfied with every new addition. Although Episode 10 did not live up to my expectations, a longer seventh season gives the writers enough time to flesh out each story they plan to tell.

The Rookie is currently available to stream on Hulu.