Series lead Nathan Fillion stated during an interview that the drama was inspired by a true story as the LAPD is one of just two agencies that accepts new officers over the age of 37. Main article: List of The Rookie episodes SeasonĬast and characters Main The man whose story inspired the premise of the show was later revealed to be Bill Norcross, who continues to serve in the LAPD and also as executive producer on The Rookie. Nathan Fillion as John Nolan: The oldest rookie (Police Officer II) at the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), he is assigned to the Wilshire Division.He studied law at Pennsylvania State University but dropped out and went into the construction business upon learning that Sarah, his girlfriend and later wife, was pregnant.