Could Nolan and Bailey adopt a child in The Rookie Season 7? Here's what the showrunner revealed

The Rookie's favourite couple, Nolan and Bailey, have been trying to explore parenthood since their marriage in Season 6 Episode 2. Viewers loved the whirlwind romance between John Nolan (Nathan Fillion) and Bailey Nune (Jenna Dewan). From dealing with a dangerous ex to facing near-death experiences, these hurdles only made their relationship stronger!

But one of the most emotional plotlines of the series has been their journey to parenthood — a dream that hit a major roadblock in Season 7. After going through all the ups and downs in Season 6, including fertility struggles and fostering issues, the couple, Nolan and Bailey, finally decided to adopt a child in The Rookie Season 7 Episode 13.

However, their dreams were shattered when the social worker informed them that their adoption application had been declined due to the danger and uncertainty of their jobs as a police officer and a firefighter.

Previously, in Season 6 Episode 5, the couple decided to foster a toddler, Anna, rescued from the crime scene. In the process, Bailey overcame her fear of looking after a baby due to a past traumatic incident. Just when Nolan and Bailey were ready to foster Anna, she was taken by her uncle, which left the fans eagerly waiting for the couple to have children.

However, in the later episodes, it was revealed that due to a health condition, Bailey could not conceive naturally. In Season 6 Episode 8, the couple decided to opt for IVF, but backed out since she was not ready for the emotional rollercoaster of hope and disappointment.

In reality, a police officer or a firefighter can adopt a child in the U.S. Regardless of their profession, anyone who fulfills the state requirements can adopt a child. So why did the showrunner plan to twist the rules for the plot?

Here's what we know.

Showrunner Alexi Hawley opens up about Nolan and Bailey's adoption plot

In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Alexi Hawley made it clear that Nolan and Bailey's adoption journey has reached its conclusion, atleast for now. While he did acknowledge that the first responders could adopt in real life, he emphasized that the couple's constant battle with danger made the case unique. He said,

"I do think at the end of the day, just the sheer volume of near-death experiences that they have on the daily. But I think they've come through it and for now at least, have made their peace with the fact that it's just the two of them."

This decision ultimately aligns with The Rookie's commitment to real-life issues and raw storytelling, even if it means denying the fans a happy ending. However, Hawley did not mention that the couple will remain childless throughout the series. As they say, never say never in The Rookie universe; there remains a possibility in the upcoming seasons.

Why did the adoption storyline matter and what's next for Nolan and Bailey?

Nolan and Bailey's struggle to start a family has been one of the most relatable arcs of the show. As per a report by the World Health Organisation (2023), every one in six people in the world is affected by infertility. Additionally, as per a 2022 report by the National Council for Adoption, the adoption rate declined to 24% in the year 2019-2020.

The Rookie thus highlights both the issues through Nolan and Bailey's emotional journey to parenthood. While some fans may be disappointed, the storyline's emotional weight connected with several viewers who might have faced similar hurdles in their own lives.

With The Rookie renewed for Season 8, there remains a possibility of the couple building a family together. But for now, the fans can witness how the power couple tackles the upcoming dangers.

Also read: The Rookie Season 7 Episode 15: Release date news, streaming details, and more

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