In a series packed with action, unexpected twists, and moral dilemmas, The Rookie has also stood out for the emotional depth of its characters and the way it builds genuine relationships. A perfect example of this is the relationship between Lucy Chen (Melissa O’Neil) and Tamara Colins (Dylan Conrique), which has evolved quietly but with enormous impact over several seasons. What began as a gesture of goodwill eventually became one of the show’s strongest and most heartwarming sisterhoods.
From a Good Deed to a Lasting Connection
Tamara was introduced in The Rookie Season 3 as a vulnerable young woman, scarred by her time in foster care and a few minor mistakes. After initial contact with Jackson West and John Nolan, Tamara eventually connects with Lucy, who not only gives her her car after discovering she had stolen it but also offers her help and someone she can trust. This gesture is the beginning of a deeply transformative relationship for both of them.
Lucy, who until then had been more focused on her professional and personal development, took an unexpected step by assuming a kind of mentor role with Tamara. She adopts her first puppy, in Tim’s words. However, the interesting thing about their bond is that it’s not a one-way relationship. From the beginning, Tamara brings a fresh, challenging, and often sincere energy that forces Lucy to look at herself from a different perspective.
As time goes by, Tamara trusts Lucy more and more because she realizes that she is there for her—she’s the only person who is. Finally, when Tamara needs a place to stay, Lucy doesn’t hesitate to offer her home, and they end up living together.
After this, especially during the fourth and fifth seasons of The Rookie, Tamara begins to forge her own path. She gets involved in projects with a social purpose, thinks about college, and proves that she doesn’t need to be saved, but rather supported. Lucy, for her part, faces her own challenges, from undercover missions to romantic and professional dilemmas. Even so, Tamara remains a constant presence in her life, an emotional anchor that keeps her grounded.
There’s something very realistic about how The Rookie handles this relationship. It’s built on everyday life, small gestures, and the trust gained over time. Lucy and Tamara aren’t always at the center of the action, but when they share scenes, it’s evident that there’s a deep understanding between them.
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Growing Together on Different Paths
One of the most important moments in their relationship occurs when Tamara decides to move out. She’s no longer the aimless teenager she once was; she now has clear goals and wants to begin a more independent life. The move represents a kind of rite of passage—not only for Tamara but for Lucy as well.
For Lucy, this change is bittersweet. Although she’s proud of Tamara’s growth, she also experiences a feeling of emptiness. For years, their apartment was a shared home, a safe space for both of them. Tamara’s departure marks the end of a chapter, but it also reaffirms the success of their relationship. Lucy didn’t raise a dependent woman but rather helped shape a young woman capable of taking control of her life.
Despite their closeness, the relationship between Lucy and Tamara is not without conflict. In The Rookie Season 7, tensions between the two reach a critical point when Tamara begins dating Seth. Lucy tries to warn her, but Tamara interprets this as an intrusion and a lack of trust in her judgment.
The argument between the two is harsh. Tamara, now more independent, refuses to accept advice that sounds like orders. Lucy, for her part, faces the dilemma of how to protect someone without overstepping her boundaries. It’s a fight that exposes the shift in their dynamic. Tamara is no longer a teenager who needs to be guided, and Lucy is still learning to let go of the “protector” role.
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The Chosen Family in The Rookie
Tamara eventually realizes that Lucy was right. In The Rookie, Seth crosses lines that put Tamara in awkward situations. This recognition comes with a hug and words that reaffirm mutual respect. Tamara apologizes but is also grateful that Lucy never abandoned her, even when she wouldn’t listen.
One of the recurring themes in The Rookie is that of found family: those bonds that form outside of blood ties, but are just as strong—or even stronger. Lucy and Tamara are living examples of this.
The Rookie Season 7 airs Tuesdays at 9 pm on ABC.
