Production for The Rookie season 8 started in Prague in June, marking the first time the show was filmed internationally. Nathan Fillion shared insights about this distinctive experience during a recent appearance, shedding light on what filming in the Czech capital was like and what viewers might anticipate from the upcoming season premiere. His comments reveal an intriguing blend of cinematic style and historical ambiance that shaped the shoot.
Fillion Describes an Unforgettable Filming Atmosphere
On July 7, Nathan Fillion was a guest on Jimmy Kimmel Live, joining guest host Anthony Anderson to discuss his latest movie, Superman, as well as The Rookie season 8. When the subject turned to the show’s production overseas, Fillion vividly described the setting and tone of filming. He drew a comparison between shooting in Prague and the aesthetic of a James Bond film, emphasizing the unique character of the location.
“We went off to Prague to shoot a portion of the premiere episode of season 8 … It felt like I was shooting Casino Royale. I’m telling you, I’m in a suit, you’re walking down these incredible streets. I love the history. There’s so much history. This building was built in the 1400s, but behind it are the old buildings. This beautiful clock, and it’s such a dark history, too. This beautiful clock, it was so incredible, they said after the fella made it, they went and burned out his eyes with a white-hot poker so he would never make anything so beautiful again. Like, these were tough times.”
—Nathan Fillion
The Significance of Prague’s Historical Backdrop for The Rookie
Fillion’s reflections highlight how the historic environment of Prague added depth and atmosphere to the production. The actor’s reference to the 15th-century buildings and the famous astronomical clock underscores the city’s timeless allure, which provided a dramatic and immersive setting for the season premiere scenes. This shift to filming abroad injects fresh visual dynamics into the series, potentially elevating its narrative impact.

By choosing Prague as a filming location, the production brings a unique vibrancy that contrasts with the typically Los Angeles-based setting of the show. The blending of Prague’s rich past with The Rookie’s contemporary storyline suggests an exciting evolution for the series, likely delivering compelling new scenarios for Nathan Fillion’s character and the cast.
What Viewers Can Expect Moving Forward
The decision to film part of The Rookie season 8 in Prague signals a bold creative move, one that could expand the storytelling possibilities and offer fans a fresh perspective on the police procedural. Fillion’s enthusiasm and detailed descriptions hint at a visually stunning and narratively rich premiere that embraces both the glamour and the intense history of its location. The production’s overseas venture may set a new tone for the season and demonstrate the show’s commitment to evolving its setting and style.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Nathan Fillion lose his hearing?
A. He can’t hear in his left ear, having lost his hearing in 1977. Working on Firefly in 2002 was the most enjoyable TV series experience for him. He compares every other TV or movie set to that time, using it as a standard.
Q. What illness does Nathan Fillion have?
A. The actor, known for roles in Firefly and Castle, became deaf in his left ear in 1977 at age six, but the reason is unclear. Nathan seldom discusses it. However, in 2014, he mentioned his hearing condition on Twitter, quoting a friend who said, “YOU DON’T LOOK DEAF IN YOUR LEFT EAR.”
Q. Is Nathan Fillion deaf?
A. He cannot hear from his left ear. His hearing in that ear was lost back in 1977.
Q. Did Nathan Fillion ever marry?
A. People think Nathan is currently single, though he’s had a complicated romantic past. He has been engaged two times, but he has not married.
