25 of the most buzzworthy new shows for Fall 2018

The Rookie – ABC

What you’re watching: Basically, you’re watching Nathan Fillion carry a show with his charm and ABC prove that the problems on the Castle set were all Stana Katic’s fault. We’re never one to doubt Fillion’s general appeal, but what contract did this man sign that mandates his presence on TV at all times?

The Rookie is about a small town man, John Nolan, who has a life-changing experience and leaves his hum-drum life to pursue his dream of being a Los Angeles cop. Although the idea of anybody wanting to be a cop these days seems unlikely, the idea of a 40-year-old man quitting his life to do it feels even more far-fetched. But that’s how they get you. Nolan is meant to use his experience, wisdom, and sense of humor to become more than just a “walking midlife crisis.”

What it reminds you of: It’s got all the same conflict as the similarly titled Rookie Blue, except Fillion has the added problem of being 40 on the show (even though he’s a solid 47 in real life). It also smacks of his hit vehicle Castle, as he’s drawn as the sidekick-whose-really-the star.

Long-term potential: Fillion could carry a phone book and folks would watch it, so we imagine this series has at least two seasons in it. However, I don’t love that the writers and the other characters are acting like 40 is super old. It’s not like Fillion is playing a 75-year-old trying to train to be a cop. That’s leaving a bitter taste in this (almost) 40-year-old’s mouth.