Freddie Stroma Unveiled as Dash’s Father in ‘The Rookie’
The April 6 episode of The Rookie opened with a turning point for the DA’s office. Wesley arrived, intending to hand in his resignation after losing the election.
Wesley and the DA shake-up
Wesley, played by Shawn Ashmore, had already planned a return to defense work. He contacted his old landlord as part of that plan. Colleagues Angela and Nyla pressed him to ensure proper case handoffs.
Vivian, the new DA played by Necar Zadegan, immediately proposed collaboration. Sean, played by Michael Trucco, tried to dissuade Wesley. He warned that Vivian would likely refuse a resignation with three staffers already gone.
Vivian handed the office 27 felony arrests awaiting prosecution. She asked that plea deals be secured for all cases. Wesley and Sean rejected the request because the charges were excessively harsh.
Both men ultimately quit rather than approve the pleas. Wesley joked about switching sides and forming a law firm. The scene closed on a sullen exit and an uncertain future for the office.
School murder and Dash’s father
Nolan, played by Nathan Fillion, responded when teenager Dash reported a dead teacher at school. The investigation introduced Dash’s father, portrayed by Freddie Stroma.
The father surfaced as an inconsistent presence. Dash described him as someone who appeared sporadically every six to eight months. He also noted dangerous debts that put Dash at risk.
Stroma’s character sells odd products, including a breakfast soup and a whiskey-tequila blend. Those ventures had landed him in trouble with dangerous people. He failed to grasp his son’s trauma about the murder, and he did not act like a responsible parent.
Dash told his father he was finished with him. The father admitted his shortcomings and recognized his son’s need for a role model. Nolan offered protection and reassured Dash he would be there for him.
Casting note and creator comments
Michael Trucco had teased a “fun twist” upon his return this season. The twist arrived in the form of a surprising guest role. Freddie Stroma Unveiled as Dash’s Father in ‘The Rookie’ delivered both humor and tension.
Key credits and schedule
- Wesley — Shawn Ashmore
- Sean — Michael Trucco
- Vivian — Necar Zadegan
- Nolan — Nathan Fillion
- Dash — Beckett Hawley
- Dash’s father — Freddie Stroma
The Rookie airs Mondays at 10/9c on ABC. Share your thoughts on the episode in the comments at Filmogaz.com.
