The creator of ABC’s The Rookie, Alexi Hawley, has confirmed that the forthcoming ninth season will include a crossover with spin-off series The Rookie: North. The development matters because it expands the franchise following Season 8’s cliff-hanger ending, which turned an engagement into an abduction in its final moments.

Season 9 is currently filming and is expected to begin with a two-part premiere, while the crossover episodes are being developed. Hawley credited the show’s continuing appeal to its ensemble cast, led by Nathan Fillion, alongside its hopeful tone, character relationships and unexpected police-case twists.