Why Did Tru Valentino Leave ‘The Rookie?’ Aaron Thorsen’s Exit Explained

On January 8, 2025By Littum

THE ROOKIE – Hit and Run The team goes on a city-wide hunt for someone who threatens them … (+) mass casualty event. Meanwhile, Tim’s sister Genny shows up unannounced with some surprising news, and Lopez continues her internal battle over Wesley’s deal with Elijah and tries to come up with a plan to get them out of it in an all-new episode of The Rookie, SUNDAY , DEC . 5 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EST), on ABC. (Raymond Liu/ABC via Getty Images) BELIEVE VALENTINO

ABC via Getty Images

When The Rookie returns on January 7th, fans may notice the absence of a beloved character – Officer Aaron Thorsen. Why did Tru Valentino leave the show and is there a chance his character will return in the future? Here’s everything to know before the premiere.

Valentino joined ABC’s The Rookie in Season 4 as Officer Thorsen, a wealthy former TikTok star who achieved worldwide fame after being wrongfully accused of murdering his roommate while studying abroad. Despite the public scrutiny, Thorsen pursued a career in law enforcement, joining the LAPD under Nyla Harper, who mentored him as her second probationary intern.

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At the end of the 5 season—Valentino’s first as a series regular—Thorsen experienced a life-changing event when he was shot, prompting him to seek therapy in season 6 with Dr. Blair London to help process his emotional trauma. However, London was not what she seemed; she manipulated Thorsen and the LAPD by secretly providing information about police activities to Monica Stevens.

Why did Tru leave Valentino The Rookie?

THE ROOKIE – “Punch Card” – After a mafia-related mass casualty, the team is tasked with holding on … (+) peace in the hospital. Lucy and Celina work together to investigate the suspects behind the attack. Meanwhile, Tim and Aaron embark on a subway mission. TUESDAY, MAY 7 (9:00-10:00 PM EDT) on ABC.(DISNEY/Raymond Liu) TRU VALENTINO, ERIC WINTER

Disney

In August 2024, TVLine confirmed to which Valentino would not return The Rookie as Aaron Thorsen in season 7. Showrunner Alexi Hawley later cited creative reasons for Valentino’s exit, but assured fans that the door remains open for the actor to reprise his role in the future.

“Of course. Tru (Valentino) is an amazing actor and he was a huge part of our show for several seasons and so we would love to have him back in some capacity,” the writer shared. Screen Rant. “It just ultimately felt like, creatively, because of where the show was going, that we had to pivot a little bit. But he’s still very much alive in our universe.”

A day after Valentino’s departure was announced, on August 9, the actor addressed the news on his social media. “I will always value my time The Rookie but couldn’t be more excited for what the future holds,” he shared on his Instagram story at the time. “I love the friends and relationships that were made while I was there. It was such an amazing opportunity and I feel so lucky to have had the last 3 seasons. Thanks to the best fans in the world, I know I don’t talk much, but I really appreciate you all.”

The 36-year-old actor also hinted that a return in the future is not off the table. “You never know who might re-emerge in the Mid-Wilshire Precinct,” he added. “Until then, 7 Adam 19, this is Officer Thorsen, over and out!”

Both Hawley and Valentino’s remarks hint that Thorsen will not be killed off-screen in Season 7. However, it remains unclear how the show will handle his character’s departure, whether it be through a transfer from the LAPD, an exit from law enforcement, or a completely different reason.

Who replaces Aaron Thorsen On The rookie?

THE ROOKIE – “Escape Plan” – Sgt. Gray helps the team prepare for their biggest mission yet. … (+) Meanwhile, Aaron, Lopez, Celina, Tim and Smitty discover a surprising connection in their cases. TUESDAY, MAY 21 (9:00-10:00 p.m. EDT) on ABC. (Disney/Raymond Liu) BELIEVE VALENTINO

Disney

While Thorsen is definitely traveling The RookieSeason 7 welcomes two new faces to the LAPD. Deric Augustine joins the cast as Miles, a Texas transplant and two-year police veteran who is still considered a rookie in his new role. Patrick Keleher will portray Seth, a rookie who struggles to make quick, decisive choices on the job.

The logline for the Season 7 premiere episode, “The Shot,” reads: “Now recovered from a gunshot wound and feeling the effects of his age, John and the team welcome two new rookies and continue the hunt for two dangerous inmates with very personal vendettas after their prison escape.”

The Rookie Season 7 airs on Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET. Watch the official trailer for the new season below.