S.W.A.T. Canceled (Again) by CBS After 8 Seasons!

CBS has officially canceled S.W.A.T. after eight seasons, marking the end of the road for the popular police drama starring Shemar Moore. The series, which has been a Friday night staple for the network, will air its final episode in May. This decision comes as a blow to fans and the show’s creative team, who had hoped for another last-minute reprieve like the one that saved the series in 2023.

A Rollercoaster Journey for ‘S.W.A.T.’

S.W.A.T. has had a tumultuous relationship with CBS in recent years. After being canceled in May 2023 following its sixth season, the network reversed its decision just days later, renewing the show for what was initially announced as a seventh and final season. However, the series was surprisingly renewed again in May 2024 for an eighth season, giving fans hope that it might continue beyond 2025.

This time, however, the cancellation appears to be final. Unlike previous years, CBS did not engage in renewal talks with lead studio Sony Pictures Television, opting instead to end the long-running series outright.

A Tough Week for CBS Dramas

The cancellation of S.W.A.T. is part of a broader shakeup at CBS, which has also axed FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International this week. All three shows are produced by outside studios—Sony TV and Universal Television—and their cancellations come as CBS prepares to introduce new series and spinoffs, including Sheriff Country (a Fire Country spinoff) and Boston Blue (a Blue Bloods extension).

While S.W.A.T. has been a reliable performer, particularly on Friday nights, it has struggled with lower ratings compared to other CBS dramas. Despite its loyal fanbase and consistent viewership, the show ultimately fell victim to the network’s evolving priorities and budget constraints.

Showrunners and Cast React to the News

The cancellation has left the show’s creative team and cast heartbroken. Executive producer and showrunner Andrew Dettmann expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work on the series, calling the news “heartbreaking.”

“It’s heartbreaking news, primarily because it’s been such an immense pleasure working with this cast and crew to put out a show that we’ve always been proud of,” Dettmann said. “They are truly an extraordinary group of people who have all worked so hard and have been so dedicated for all these eight seasons, overcoming countless challenges. I can’t give them enough credit. I feel so privileged to have been a part of the S.W.A.T. family.”

Shawn Ryan, another executive producer and former showrunner, echoed Dettmann’s sentiments, particularly emphasizing the impact on the show’s crew.

“It’s been an extraordinary privilege to work on S.W.A.T. for eight seasons and tell the stories of Hondo and 20-Squad,” Ryan said. “I thank our fans, Shemar Moore, the rest of our cast, our producers, Sony Pictures Television, CBS Studios, and CBS for the opportunity. Most of all, I want to thank our tireless, dedicated crew who made our writers, directors, and cast always look good. My greatest concern right now is for them.”

The Uncertain Future of CBS Dramas

The cancellation of S.W.A.T. also reflects broader changes at CBS, particularly in light of the pending acquisition of Paramount Global by Skydance. Ryan had previously expressed concerns about how the ownership change might impact the show’s future.

“The show, I think, is beloved in the executive ranks at CBS, the show is beloved by our audience,” Ryan told Deadline in January. “But we also understand that a corporate change is happening in that world. I don’t know what the plans are. I don’t know what the criteria for renewal is going to be. It seems like it could be much different than years past.”

A Legacy of Action and Heart

Based on the 1975 TV series and the 2003 film of the same name, S.W.A.T. has been a standout in CBS’s lineup, blending intense action with compelling character drama. The series stars Shemar Moore as LAPD Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, leading his elite Twenty Squad through high-stakes missions in Los Angeles. The cast also includes Jay Harrington, David Lim, Patrick St. Esprit, Anna Enger Ritch, Niko Pepaj, and Annie Ilonzeh.

Over its eight seasons, S.W.A.T. has tackled timely issues, celebrated diversity, and delivered thrilling storytelling, earning a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

Farewell to 20-Squad

As S.W.A.T. prepares to air its final episodes, fans can look forward to a satisfying conclusion to the series. While the cancellation is undoubtedly disappointing, the show’s legacy will live on through its memorable characters, gripping storylines, and the impact it has had on the police procedural genre.

Thank you to the cast, crew, and fans for eight incredible seasons. Hondo and 20-Squad will be missed.