The Rookie could be set for a new spin-off series, focused on a new character played by Niecy Nash.
The When They See Us actress is first due to appear in the main show as Simone Clark, who is the oldest rookie in the academy, with her run lasting two episodes.
The guest appearance will see Clark get brought on board by John Nolan (Nathan Fillion) and the LA branch of the FBI to help on a case after one of her former pupils is suspected of terrorism after a power plant explosion.
Related: The Rookie season 4 promotes star to series regular
However, it looks like this short stint may open the door to a possible spin-off of her own, that is likely to hit screen next year and expand the Rookie universe – so keep your eyes peeled.
"I'm so excited to guest star on The Rookie and bring Simone Clark to life!" Nash has said in a statement. "She is a spirited and spicy fish out of water. The cast is amazing and I can't wait to play!"
What to Read Next
The Rookie, which is currently in the middle of its fourth season, focuses on Nolan, a forty-something rookie in the LAPD as he tries to keep up with his junior colleagues.
Related: The Rookie boss teases what's next for major character following midseason finale
Earlier this season, the show saw the exit of Officer Jackson West (Titus Makin) after the character was fatally shot in the season premiere.
"It's heartbreaking," showrunner Alexi Hawley told TVLine at the time. "But I didn't really have a choice. He wasn't coming back, and because of the way we set things up with the [season three] finale, there was just no way to tell that story without Jackson...
"But we lean really hard into honouring how he was the heart of the show, and it was definitely impactful for us to have to deal with that."
The Rookie airs on ABC in the US, and airs on Sky Witness in the UK. It can also be streamed on NOW.
Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International. Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every 't' and dotting every 'i' as a sub-editor.
