The Rookie Basically Reduced This Character to Zero With No Remorse

When The Rookie hit screens in 2018, it immediately captured the public's attention. Mostly because of Nathan Fillion, who many knew and loved from his previous role in Castle.

While the ABC show had a different story to tell, the essence seemed familiar, and audiences were quickly hooked on the story of John Nolan, who, after a life-changing incident, pursues his dream of joining the LAPD.

Five seasons in, the story seems to be slowing down, especially for Nolan himself. Although he still appears on the show, many viewers agree that his character just doesn't seem as important to the show as he once was.

John Nolan still enjoys himself, but fans don't recognize the ambition and dedication in him anymore.

Today, he is a sub-par training officer with an insubordinate rookie, which seems far from perfect for the career. Although he is happily engaged, his fiancée proves to be better at everything they do.

Even his work is not as important anymore, as everything gets done almost without his involvement. While some might call this a happy and domesticated life, others would argue that this is not what they signed up for.

As sad as it is for the audience to lose the presence of John Nolan with each and every episode, his absence is believed to be related to Nathan Fillion's personal decision to step away from the show.

He remains an executive producer on The Rookie and has some influence over his character's arc. It would be fair to assume that he would get more screen time if he wanted it.

Considering that Fillion has commented on how exhausting his involvement with Castle has been, it's no surprise that he wants to take it easy this time around.

However, fans are still hoping to see him a little more often, or at least with a little more impactful storylines.

Tune in to ABC every Tuesday for the latest episodes of The Rookie, or catch up on previous seasons on Hulu.