The popular series “The Rookie” made a notable return to its beloved humor in the season 8 premiere by reviving the recurring joke of “Daddy Cop.” The showrunner, Alexi Hawley, discussed this decision in an interview with ScreenRant, revealing how the joke’s revival ties into the show’s ongoing narrative.
During the premiere, which aired on October 16, 2023, references to previous seasons were prevalent, including a performance of the catchy song “Daddy Cop” by the character Rodge. This light-hearted tune, first introduced in season 5, episode 13, reflects the humorous dynamics between the characters, particularly Nathan Fillion‘s character, John Nolan, who has often found himself the subject of Rodge’s playful mockery.
While scouting locations in Prague, Hawley collaborated with Zander Hawley, the actor who portrays Rodge. They engaged a local musician to perform on Charles Bridge, enhancing the authenticity and charm of the scene. Hawley noted, “It was a small world and very funny,” highlighting the collaborative spirit behind the show.
The song “Daddy Cop” has become a humorous motif in Nolan’s life, often resurfacing in various contexts. Rodge’s relationship with Celina, a character who often hums the song to annoy Nolan, adds another layer to the joke. The song’s catchy nature has resulted in multiple confrontations between the characters, which have provided comedic relief throughout the series.
In previous seasons, Rodge’s antics included attempts to showcase updated versions of the song, creating tension and laughter in equal measure. The character’s development culminated in season 7, episode 10, when he reconciled with Nolan after a dramatic incident related to his music. As the series progresses, Rodge and Celina’s relationship deepens, further entrenching the song in the storyline.
The reappearance of “Daddy Cop” in season 8 hints at its growing popularity within the narrative. Hawley expressed enthusiasm for the song’s potential impact, stating, “It’s funny to see where it pops up,” suggesting that its presence could lead to even larger audiences in future episodes.
As the season unfolds, it appears that the parody song has a chance to become even more ingrained in the series. The enduring nature of this running joke promises to keep audiences entertained while providing insight into Nolan’s character.
Fans of “The Rookie” can expect that “Daddy Cop” will continue to play a humorous role in Nolan’s life, with the show demonstrating an ability to weave nostalgia into its storytelling. As the season progresses, viewers may see more creative uses of the song, ensuring that it remains a memorable part of the show’s fabric until Nolan eventually retires from the force.
For those interested in behind-the-scenes insights and updates about the series, subscribing to the newsletter offers curated coverage of “The Rookie” and similar moments in television.
