Posted in: ABC, TV | Tagged: The RookieThe Rookie Star Eric Winter Teases Season 8 Finale Alternate EndingThe Rookie star Eric Winter touched on what the show had planned if it wasn't renewed for Season 9. Article Summary The Rookie star Eric Winter reveals Season 8 filmed an alternate ending in case ABC didn’t renew the series for Season 9. Winter teases the unused finale would have ended differently, but keeps the details secret to avoid spoiling The Rookie. Alexi Hawley says The Rookie Season 9 premieres in January with a high-stakes two-part return full of drama and humor. The Rookie Season 8 finale set up Tim and Lucy’s abduction after the proposal, launching Season 9’s biggest cliffhanger.