Final Salute: CBS Cancels "S.W.A.T." After Eight Seasons
S.W.A.T. has reached its final chapter. The police drama starring Shemar Moore, currently in its eighth season, has been officially canceled by CBS, with the show concluding in May. If this feels like déjà vu, you’re not mistaken—back in May 2023, CBS initially canceled S.W.A.T. after six seasons before backtracking and announcing a seventh and final season. Shockingly, the series was then renewed for an eighth season in May 2024. However, this time around, the cancellation appears to be definitive and irreversible.
In the last two years, the show’s primary studio, Sony Pictures Television, managed to come to financial agreements with CBS at the last minute, securing unexpected renewals. However, this time CBS has chosen not to pursue further renewal discussions, opting instead to conclude the long-running show. This makes S.W.A.T. the third prominent drama canceled by the network this week, following FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International. Some drama cancellations were anticipated, as CBS has already slated two new dramas, “Sheriff Country”—a “Fire Country” spinoff—and “Boston Blue,” part of the Blue Bloods universe. Additionally, they’re considering potential FBI and Equalizer spinoffs and are developing the drama “Einstein,” starring Matthew Gray Gubler.
As previously reported by Deadline during the renewal announcements, S.W.A.T. was an expected candidate for cancellation, largely due to its lower viewership ratings compared to other dramas facing renewal decisions, including FBI spinoffs. Despite this, the show has performed steadily each season, maintaining a loyal audience on Friday nights. According to Andrew Dettmann, executive producer and showrunner, “It’s heartbreaking news, mostly because this cast and crew have been a joy to work with, tirelessly dedicating themselves over eight seasons and rising to overcome numerous obstacles. I’m exceedingly grateful to have been part of the S.W.A.T. family.”
Inspired by the 1975 TV series and the 2003 film, S.W.A.T. stars Moore as LAPD Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson. The talented ensemble cast includes Jay Harrington, David Lim, Patrick St. Esprit, Anna Enger Ritch, Niko Pepaj, and Annie Ilonzeh. Despite its ending, the series leaves a legacy of action-packed storytelling and tight-knit camaraderie.