Why did Aaron Thorsen leave The Rookie? Reason behind Tru Valentino's exit, explored

ABC premiered Season 7 of its police procedural drama The Rookie on January 7, 2025.

The Rookie Season 7 features an ensemble cast with Nathan Fillion, Eric Winter, Alyssa Diaz, Melissa O'Neil, Mekia Cox, and Richard T. Jones. Yet, fans were left wondering why Officer Aaron Thorsen, played by Tru Valentino, was absent from The Rookie Season 7. The surprising exit of Tru Valentino's sudden exit from The Rookie Season 7 was a creative choice made by the creators of the show. But since they didn't kill off his character, Aaron Thorsen, it implies that he may come back in the upcoming seasons.

Tru Valentino portrays Officer Aaron Thorson, who debuted in The Rookie Season 4, Episode 2, titled Five Minutes, as Nyla Harper's trainee. Originally from an affluent family, the former social media sensation, Aaron, struggled to manage the rigorous training, more so due to his dark past. Aaron has since proven to be a worthy rookie and was promoted to Police Officer II through dedication and hard work.

Why did Aaron Thorsen leave The Rookie?

For anyone who has missed The Rookie Season 7 Episode 1, titled The Shot, which was released on January 7, 2025, this is when the viewers were informed about his exit. Even though Tru Valentino did not appear in the premiere episode, through Celina's conversation with Nolan, viewers are made aware that Aaron had been transferred to North Hollywood. Celina mentioned that Aaron was quite happy and settled in his new precinct, mostly because they were unaware of his traumatic past with the therapist, Blair.

In an exclusive report by TVLine, on August 8, 2024, Tru Valentino's exit from The Rookie was confirmed after the actor's absence from the show's San Diego Comic-Con. The Rookie's creator, Alexi Hawley, clarified that they had to make this decision owing to the creative decision. He told ScreenRant,

"It ultimately felt like, creatively, for where the show was going, that we needed to pivot a bit. But he's still very much alive in our universe."

Will Aaron Thorsen return to The Rookie?

There's currently no official statement from the show creators or the actor about Aaron Thorsen's return to The Rookie. However, as Aaron Thorsen was written off for this season and not killed by the creators, there remains a possibility for his return. Additionally, in the interview with Screenrant, creator Alexi Hawley mentioned how the character's exit was not due to the actor's craft inability. He told,

"Tru Valentino is a great actor and was a huge part of our show for several seasons, and so we'd love to have him back in some capacity."

When Tru Valentino took to Instagram to explain his departure from The Rookie Season 7, he teased a possible return. He wrote (via Deadline)

"I will always cherish my time on The Rookie but couldn't be more excited for what the future has in store. It was such an amazing opportunity, and I feel so lucky to have had the last three seasons. Thank you to the best fans in the world. You never know who may pop back up in the Mid-Wilshire precinct. Until then, 7 Adam 19, this is Officer Thorsen, over and out!"

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Adding to the actor's comment, the creators have not entirely wiped up Aaron's existence from the police procedural show. After his absence was clarified by Celina to Nolan in The Rookie Season 7 Episode 1, Aaron Thorsen was mentioned by Nyla Harper in The Rookie Season 7 Episode 13 titled 'Three Billboards. ' In the closing scenes of the episode, during a group meeting, Nyla remembers Aaron's smear campaign investigation.

Also read: The Rookie Season 7 Episode 14: Release date news, streaming details, and more

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