The premiere of Season 8 of *The Rookie* brought back one of the series’ most cherished running jokes, much to the delight of fans. In the first episode, viewers were treated to references from earlier seasons, including the recurring theme of “Daddy Cop,” a song performed by Rodge that humorously chronicles the character John Nolan, played by Nathan Fillion.
During an interview with ScreenRant’s Tatiana Hullender, showrunner Alexi Hawley shared insights into how this beloved reference resurfaced. While scouting locations in Prague, he collaborated with Zander Hawley, who portrays Rodge, to incorporate the song into the storyline. The collaboration included hiring a local musician from Prague to perform the piece in a scene set on the iconic Charles Bridge.
Hawley revealed that the idea originated from producing director Bill Roe. “We were up on the Charles Bridge, and there were a bunch of buskers, and [Roe] suggested, ‘Wouldn’t it be funny?’” Hawley recounted. The decision to integrate this humorous element showcases the show’s commitment to blending past and present storylines while maintaining a lighthearted tone.
The song “Daddy Cop” first made its debut in Season 5, Episode 13, when Rodge and his band drew inspiration from Nolan and Celina’s traffic stop. This musical tribute led to ongoing comedic tensions, notably when Celina would hum the tune around Nolan, much to his annoyance. The relationship between Rodge and Celina has since developed, culminating in their official coupling by Season 7, Episode 17, as Rodge’s band prepared for a tour featuring the catchy song.
As the series progresses, the presence of “Daddy Cop” is set to continue, with Hawley hinting at its potential for greater popularity within the show’s narrative. He noted, “It’s out in the world in a big way. It’s funny to see where it pops up.” The song’s playful nature has already led to its appearance in various forms, including bumper stickers and social media mentions, indicating its growing cultural footprint.
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate more appearances of this comedic element as Season 8 unfolds. The show’s writers have hinted at various ways to weave the song into future episodes, ensuring that it remains a humorous aspect of Nolan’s adventures on the police force.
With its blend of humor and character development, *The Rookie* continues to engage audiences. As the series delves into new narratives, the enduring joke of “Daddy Cop” promises to bring laughter and nostalgia, solidifying its place in the hearts of viewers. The show, airing on ABC, remains a staple of contemporary television, with its mix of drama and comedy resonating with a diverse audience.
As Season 8 progresses, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes insights, ensuring that they remain connected to the evolving storylines and beloved characters of *The Rookie*.
