After season seven of The Rookie teased plenty of big endings and new beginnings, one fan-favorite character was noticeably missing from the penultimate episode — Pete Nolan. Played by Pete Davidson, the beloved half-brother of John Nolan has left viewers hoping for a comeback in season eight. And the show's creators are just as eager to make it happen.
Showrunners are keen to bring Pete Davidson back for season 8
Creator Alexi Hawley has been clear about the team’s desire to reel Davidson back into the LAPD universe. In multiple interviews, he’s said that the writers are “desperate” to get him back and that they’re constantly looking for a story that fits his chaotic charm. It’s not for lack of interest on Davidson’s part either — his representatives regularly check in with the show about availability.
“It’s just about trying to land when he’s actually available, because he’s super busy,” Hawley told Deadline. “Pete Davidson is someone we’re desperate to get back, and he loves doing the show.”
Why Pete Davidson’s schedule keeps standing in the way
Davidson’s post-SNL career has been moving at full speed. Since leaving the sketch show in 2022, he’s juggled a mix of genres and roles, from his grimy crime-comedy turn in Riff Raff to voice work in the animated hit Dog Man. He even starred in his own semi-autobiographical series, Bupkis, which didn’t get a second season but still showcased his range beyond late-night monologues and edgy stand-up.
Coming up, Davidson is set to appear in three different films — The Home, Wizards!, and The Pickup — none of which have release dates yet. He’s also got a surefire hit on deck with How to Rob a Bank, a David Leitch-directed heist flick where he stars alongside Nicholas Hoult. The trailer promises mayhem, and knowing Davidson, he’ll likely steal the show.
But the problem is timing. Many of these projects are in different stages of post-production, and filming schedules for new ones aren’t always flexible. That leaves TV guest spots like The Rookie — where he’s clearly welcome — stuck waiting for gaps in his calendar.
Fans still hope for a meaningful return, not just a cameo
Davidson’s character last appeared in season four, and though Pete Nolan was never a main player, his dynamic with John Nolan added a raw, unpredictable energy to the show. He wasn’t just comic relief — he filled a familial void and gave John a mirror to reflect on his own maturity. Fans liked that relationship, and the writers did too.
There’s a difference between bringing a big name back for a stunt episode and giving the character a story that matters. The The Rookie team seems to be aiming for the latter. They don’t just want Davidson to show up — they want him to have a role that fits into Nolan’s journey. Whether that means digging deeper into Pete’s life, or throwing him into another dangerous situation with the squad, they’re open to ideas.
Why Pete Davidson fits The Rookie more than you'd expect
It might seem odd to cast a comedian known for his chaotic, sometimes controversial style in a grounded police procedural. But Davidson’s work on The Rookie has proven he can dial it in when needed. His portrayal of Pete Nolan strikes a balance between youthful recklessness and genuine brotherly care. It’s the kind of role that plays off Nathan Fillion’s steady presence and adds texture to the show's family dynamic.
As Davidson continues to explore darker and more experimental roles in film, a steady gig like The Rookie might keep calling him back. And so far, he’s answered that call when he can.
What Pete Davidson’s return would mean for season 8
With season eight already confirmed, the door is open for more guest stars and surprise returns. The show has a track record of weaving in big names—like Joel McHale, Frankie Muniz, and even celebrity one-offs like Wolfgang Puck. But few guest stars have resonated with the core audience like Davidson’s Pete Nolan.
Bringing him back wouldn’t just excite fans. It would give the writers a chance to explore new angles in John Nolan’s life now that he’s facing more personal and professional challenges. Maybe Pete has grown up. Maybe he hasn’t. Either way, the unpredictable brother dynamic is too good to pass up.
Until then, fans will have to wait—and hope
For now, Pete Davidson remains on the periphery of The Rookie — a character who shows up when the stars align. The penultimate episode joked about his absence by sending him on a bus ride because of a no-fly list. It was a quick workaround, but one that acknowledged the audience’s desire to see him back in action.
Whether season eight will be the one to bring Pete Nolan back into the fold depends on one thing: scheduling. And as we've seen, that's the only thing standing between Davidson and another chance to shine alongside Fillion and the rest of the crew.