The Rookie: A True Story of Courage and Perseverance
In the summer of 2018, ABC launched a new drama series, "The Rookie," which tells the story of John Nolan, a 40-year-old man who leaves his comfortable life behind to pursue his dream of becoming a police officer. The show has been a huge hit, with audiences drawn to its blend of action, drama, and humor. But what many viewers may not know is that the show is actually based on a true story.
The inspiration for "The Rookie" comes from the real-life story of Ben Lerner, a former police officer who joined the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) at the age of 37. Like John Nolan, Lerner had a successful career in another field before deciding to follow his passion for law enforcement. In his memoir, "Blue: A Memoir," Lerner shares his experiences as a rookie cop, detailing the challenges he faced and the triumphs he achieved.
The show’s creator, Alexi Hawley, was inspired by Lerner’s story and saw parallels between his journey and the story he wanted to tell. Hawley, a former police officer himself, knew that the challenges faced by rookie officers were often underreported and misunderstood by the public. He wanted to use "The Rookie" to humanize these officers and show the audience what they go through every day.
The show’s star, Nathan Fillion, who plays John Nolan, was also drawn to the story’s authenticity. "I was blown away by Ben’s story," Fillion said in an interview. "I had no idea that it was based on a true story. The show is so well-written, and the characters are so well-developed, that it’s easy to forget that it’s based on real events."
One of the most compelling aspects of "The Rookie" is its portrayal of the challenges faced by rookie officers. The show tackles topics such as racial profiling, police brutality, and the emotional toll of the job, all while maintaining a sense of hope and optimism. This balance is reflective of Lerner’s own experiences, which he wrote about in his memoir.
Lerner has praised the show for its accuracy and attention to detail. "The Rookie" has also been praised by law enforcement officials and experts, who appreciate the show’s portrayal of the police profession.
The success of "The Rookie" has also inspired a new wave of interest in law enforcement careers. The show’s popularity has led to a surge in applications to become police officers, with many young people citing the show as an inspiration.
In conclusion, "The Rookie" is more than just a TV show – it’s a true story of courage and perseverance. Based on the real-life experiences of Ben Lerner, the show offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by rookie officers and the rewards that come with a career in law enforcement. If you haven’t already, tune in to "The Rookie" and experience the inspiring story for yourself.