So, “The Mickey.” An episode title seemingly ripped from a mid-’70s cop show, and maybe that’s fitting, given the amount of old-school undercover work going on. This week’s Rookie threw a lot at us: near-marital meltdown for Nolan and Bailey, a rookie graduation with a side of armed robbery, and, naturally, an undercover operation that went about as smoothly as a shopping cart with a wobbly wheel.
John Nolan, still grappling with Bailey’s past, finally does what any sensible person should have done episodes ago: he talks to her. And surprise, surprise, communication actually helps. Turns out, honesty is a good policy, even in police procedurals. Who knew? Meanwhile, Tim and Lucy are tiptoeing around each other post-hookup, leaving Tim to seek solace and terrible advice from his cop support group.
Celina Juarez, finally off probation, celebrates her rookie graduation with a face-to-face encounter with armed robbers.
And then there’s Lucy Chen, who makes the questionable decision to entrust a green rookie, Seth Ridley, with an undercover assignment. Let’s just say it goes sideways faster than a donut truck in a high-speed chase. It’s the sort of predictable, over-the-top drama this show thrives on. Yes, there are stakes, ostensibly, but they feel as reheated as last night’s pot roast.
Tucked in between the near-disasters are some genuinely decent moments: Bailey finding purpose helping at a women’s shelter, and Mike Penn, proving he’s more than just comic relief, stepping up to help out. It’s enough to make you almost forget about the ridiculous undercover shenanigans. Almost.
“The Rookie” airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on ABC.
