Wondering if The Rookie and 9-1-1 exist in the same universe? Theories have sparked online after both shows featured actress Bridget Regan in major villain roles this season. With 9-1-1 now airing on ABC alongside The Rookie, and both dramas set in Los Angeles, fans have started to speculate about the possibility of a crossover event.

Here’s what we know about the shared universe theory between The Rookie and 9-1-1, and whether a crossover could ever happen.

Are The Rookie and 9-1-1 set in the same universe?

There is no official confirmation that The Rookie and 9-1-1 exist within the same fictional universe.

Both The Rookie and 9-1-1 air on ABC and take place in Los Angeles, but showrunner Alexi Hawley ruled out a crossover. He explained that it would be too “hard” to manage audience expectations for ongoing character appearances across both series.

Interest in a shared universe grew after 9-1-1 moved from FOX to ABC. Producers also cast Bridget Regan as a villain in both shows. In The Rookie Season 7, Regan returns as Monica Stevens, a defense lawyer who helped Elijah Stone and led to Wesley’s disbarment. Now, Stevens is back to cause more problems for the LAPD.

In 9-1-1 Season 8, Regan plays Moira, a rogue researcher who accelerates the spread of a virus and hoards the only antiviral, threatening the life of paramedic Chimney. Despite the timing and overlapping themes, the characters are distinct and serve different narrative purposes.

The Rookie has not referenced any 9-1-1 plotlines, including Moira’s outbreak, and vice versa. Unlike 9-1-1 and 9-1-1: Lone Star, which confirmed their shared universe through continuity references, no such link exists between The Rookie and 9-1-1. TVLine confirmed that while some cast members are aware of fan crossover theories, producers have not acted on them.

Bridget Regan’s dual casting has fueled speculation, but both roles remain isolated. The Rookie follows LAPD officer John Nolan, while 9-1-1 centers on first responders like Athena Grant and Bobby Nash. Both shows have been renewed for the 2025–2026 season, continuing separately despite fan interest in a crossover.