The Rookie Shocker: Nolan and Bailey’s Adoption Dream Ends Dramatically in Season 7

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Despite a few episodes remaining before its conclusion, the seventh season of “The Rookie” has concluded one long-running plotline. Characters Nolan and Bailey have been pursuing adoption since Bailey opted against IVF in season 6. The duo meets with a social worker in episode 13, titled “Three Billboards,” to initiate the process, but their application is rejected. Though she commends their personalities, the social worker hints that Nolan and Bailey might never be able to adopt due to the high-risk nature of their lives.

Nolan and Bailey are devastated by the news, but The Rookie is famous for leaving loose ends to revisit later. In an interview with ScreenRant, showrunner Alexi Hawley confirms that Bailey and Nolan have come to terms with the fact that it’s just the two of them. He explains that while first responders can adopt, the writers decided to portray the authenticity of their challenging situation and the great risks the couple encounters. You can read Hawley’s complete response below.

ScreenRant: Have the adoption prospects for Bailey and Nolan finally reached an end? Is this plot point conclusively resolved?

Alexi Hawley suggests: It seems to him that it has happened. He believes that what we see might be a road, unfortunately, with many challenging sections for those traveling on it. However, he also notes that this situation is likely common for many individuals. The part where they couldn’t naturally conceive a child was particularly relatable.

It appears to me that due to the high number of near-death experiences they encounter daily, first responders could certainly learn something from them. However, we’re not suggesting that they are like first responders, but rather acknowledging the unique nature of their circumstances. I believe they have managed to cope with this reality and for now, at least, have found a way to live peacefully as a pair.

ScreenRant: They are both danger magnets.

Alexi Hawley explains that the characters in the show are indeed this way, making it effective. If they were less prone to danger, the program wouldn’t be as engaging.

An Overview Of Bailey And Nolan’s Relationship In The Rookie

Jenna Dewan First Appears In Season 3, Episode 14, “Threshold”

In The Rookie’s season 3, episode 14, Dewan makes her screen debut during Bailey and Nolan’s initial encounter. This happens when she is stranded outside his door, having locked herself out of a neighboring house while only wearing a towel. Their conversation begins spontaneously in this situation. Later on, Nolan takes her to the wedding of Angela and Wesley, but the event unfortunately takes an incredibly heart-wrenching turn.

In season 4 of The Rookie, Nolan and Bailey embark on a romantic journey, but their path to happiness is fraught with challenges. Before Nolan could pop the question, he encounters Jason Wyler, Bailey’s abusive ex-husband who she had been trying to flee. Eventually, Jason is imprisoned, and in the 100th episode titled “The Hammer,” Nolan and Bailey exchange wedding vows.

The pair decides they want to grow their family and weigh the option of IVF before eventually considering adoption. In the finale of the sixth season, Jason manages to escape prison with Oscar, putting a strain on their bond once more. However, it’s confirmed by Hawley in an interview with ScreenRant that Malvado’s demise in The Rookie season 7, episode 14 ensures Bailey’s secret about Jason’s location remains hidden (for the time being).

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The Rookie season 7 airs Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on ABC and is available to stream next-day on Hulu.

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2025-04-22 00:30