UPDATED with the actor’s reaction. Deadline has confirmed that Tru Valentino, who joined the ABC series in season 4, will not return for season 7 of The Rookie.
Valentino debuted in the season four episode titled “Five Minutes” as a recurring character. He became a series regular in the fifth and sixth seasons. His character was the son of a famous rapper; he became famous on TikTok for touting his privileged lifestyle. He then made a serious life change and attended the police academy.
Valentino posted on Instagram Friday that he will “always cherish my time on The Rookie, but couldn’t be more excited for what the future has in store.”
“I adore the friends and relationships made while being there,” he wrote on his story. “It was such an amazing opportunity, and I feel so lucky to have had the last three seasons. Thank you to the best fans in the world. I know I don’t talk much, but I appreciate you all so much. You never know who may pop back up in the Mid-Wilshire precinct. Until then, 7 Adam 19, this is Officer Thorsen, over and out!”
TVLine was first to break the news about Valentino, who was a no-show at The Rookie panel at Comic-Con last month.
In July, ABC announced two new rookies will debut on the show in season 7. Deric Augustine (All American) will play Miles, a Texas transfer, while Patrick Keleher will play Seth, a rookie who isn’t always quick and decisive.
As previously announced, the new season of The Rookie won’t debut until midseason.
