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The Rookie Shocker: Seth’s Sacrifice Changes Everything—Star Reveals What’s Next

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Warning: Contains SPOILERS for The Rookie season 7, episode 16.

When Seth Ridley was dismissed from the LAPD training program, it appeared as though we hadn’t heard the last of this character. In The Rookie season 7, episode 16, the spotlight falls on Seth’s comeback and its impact on the team. This episode also reveals that Seth and Tamara have been in a relationship since they first encountered each other in “The Mickey,” despite Lucy advising her ex-roommate about Seth’s deceit.

In a critical situation, Seth bravely exposes himself to danger, hurrying out from a safe spot to shield Nolan from a threatening gunman. Unfortunately, he gets wounded and is immediately transported to the hospital for urgent surgery. During this operation, his leg must be amputated. This incident casts doubt on Seth’s career as a law enforcer. Later, Seth confesses his habitual lying to Tamara, leading her to end their partnership. The series now leaves viewers curious about Patrick Keleher’s character’s future trajectory.

In a chat with ScreenRant, actor Patrick Keleher discusses the significance of Seth’s selfless act during The Rookie season 7, episode 16, and its potential impact on his character moving forward.

Keleher Has Discussed Seth’s Backstory With The Rookie Showrunner

“We think he grew up in a lower-class family, but he was friends with a lot of upper-class kids.”

Did you happen to know that Seth, who was initially expelled from the program, would return for this particular episode?

As a dedicated movie enthusiast, let me share my experience. When the writers and producers would say, “It seems promising,” I couldn’t be sure if I was set to return for this season or a future one. The confirmation only came when my agent called with the news: “They want you back for Episode 16.”

The uncertainty of it all was nerve-wracking. It felt like losing a job, yet it was more dramatic – a theatrical layoff, if you will. I didn’t know if I would be back until that phone call came through.

Was it that Seth intended to be truthful on his second entry to the precinct, or was there a possibility of him doing so this time?

As a movie enthusiast, let me say that the character truly strives for goodness. His reason for joining the police force was to make a positive impact. Yet, there’s this lingering issue of dishonesty within him, and I can’t help but ponder about his childhood, curious if we’ll ever delve into Seth’s past. What events may have shaped him? It seems like he’s consistently trying to do what’s right, but somehow, things get muddled along the way.

If you’ve come up with any Seth lore, I’d love to hear it.

I have numerous scripts. As an actor, when there’s no given background story, you make one up. Early in our conversations during the first few episodes, Alexi suggested that his character might have grown up in a modest family but mingled with the upper class and often lied about it to fit in from a young age. This is the starting point for his character, so we’ll find out if this background holds true or changes as the story unfolds.

Seth’s Injury May Not Be The End Of His Law Enforcement Career

“I think that it left on a very positive note.”

Seth made a pretty heroic sacrifice and saved Nolan. Were you surprised?

Sure thing! Patrick Keleher: Absolutely. It’s great that he rescued Nolan, isn’t it? However, he lost his leg in the process. When I read about it, I was taken aback, saying “Wow.” I’m still puzzled about how this affects Seth as a police officer with LAPD. One day on set, I spoke to one of our former LAPD officers and he mentioned, “Yeah, man. Losing a leg means you’re out.” But you never know; unexpected things can happen.

Does Nolan imply that this situation won’t necessarily ruin Seth’s professional journey? I wonder if we might find Seth continuing to chase opportunities within this field.

Patrick Keleher: That scene is fantastic. Throughout the entire season, everything seems negative and he constantly lies. However, this is one of the rare instances where he acts honorably towards Tamara, and for once, he truthfully reveals his cancer diagnosis to her. What’s intriguing is that we don’t often see him being honest with anyone else. I believe it ends on a hopeful note, providing a bit of optimism for future episodes. We shall see if it manages to lift the overall mood.

Is it possible that we might witness a turnaround storyline here? Are there plans for your character to reappear on the series?

Patrick Keleher: I have no idea.

So you’re done for season 7?

Patrick Keleher: Yeah. I am done in season 7.

Keleher Believes Seth And Tamara Could Reconcile Down The Line

“I’d like to see more, just as a friendship. Even if it’s not a relationship, I think they work well together.”

Could it possibly happen that he and Tamara find their way back together? There was something about the way he appeared in that hospital scene that suggested a change in him.

Patrick Keleher: Absolutely, I agree. There seems to be potential. They make a good pair. Unfortunately, a scene had been eliminated. Originally, an opening scene was planned where Tamara and Seth first appear at the police station, marking the start of the episode. This cut scene provided a glimpse into their chemistry, further emphasizing that they work well together.

I found Dylan simply amazing! Our connection was effortless, which left me yearning for more, primarily in the form of friendship. Although romantic feelings might not be reciprocated, I believe we complement each other exceptionally well – and this was particularly evident during that recent drug bust we handled together. It’s fascinating to witness such a dynamic duo at work! They make an excellent team.

As a movie buff, I often wonder how Seth might be feeling towards Lucy. Is there a hint of resentment, or does he grasp that she was compelled to report him due to his actions?

I believe there’s no grudge or ill feelings between him and her, as far as I can tell.

It looks like Seth and Miles had an argument in the locker room. Given that you two appear to be such close friends off-screen, I’m curious about how you managed to pull off that joint stunt.

As a movie enthusiast, let me tell you, Deric nailed that scene! It was such a blast to be part of it, and yes, he even gave me a little tap during filming – that happens quite often. To me, their friendship seems to shine brighter than any other relationships in the film. I have this feeling there’s more potential for them in the long run.

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About The Rookie Season 7 On ABC

Created And Executive Produced By Alexi Hawley

Previously regarded as the oldest recruit at the LAPD, John Nolan, has leveraged his life experiences, resilience, and wit to stay on par with rookies more than two decades younger. After undergoing recovery from a gunshot injury and grappling with the signs of aging, Nolan and the team find themselves in the company of two fresh recruits as they persist in tracking down two dangerous fugitives who harbor deeply personal grudges.

Check out our other interviews for The Rookie season 7:

  • Alexi Hawley
  • Deric Augustine
  • Jenna Dewan
  • Lisseth Chavez
  • Melissa O’Neil
  • Shawn Ashmore

The Rookie season 7 airs Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on ABC and is available to stream next-day on Hulu.

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2025-04-30 06:14

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