Hold up SWAT fans are you sitting down? Because we have some news that might sting a little. It looks like CBS has cancelled SWAT and yeah you read that right it's for the THIRD time. Is this some kind of record? It feels like déjà vu all over again but this time it sounds like it might really be the end for Hondo and the 20-Squad.
"We Are Cancelled Again" Shemar Moore Shares Heartbreaking News with SWAT Crew and Fans
Shemar Moore who plays the iconic Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson broke the news himself in an emotional video on Instagram. And let's just say he was not pulling any punches. "We are cancelled again" Moore stated bluntly. He acknowledged the situation is "sad" and well "sucks".
But Moore also pointed out something pretty incredible. SWAT has been "uncancelled twice two years in a row." He jokingly asked how many shows can actually claim that. "I’m going to say none. Or we’re one of the none" he said with a mix of pride and disbelief. You have to admit it is a wild ride for a show to be cancelled and then revived not once but twice.
Moore described having to deliver the tough news to the SWAT crew. He admitted there was "nothing I can say to make this sound nice good optimistic nothing." However he emphasized the crew should "be proud" because they "defied the odds" and created a "hit television show that the world loved to watch." It is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved that SWAT has resonated with audiences for eight seasons.
A Cancellation Three-peat? The Tumultuous History of SWAT's Network Future
This cancellation saga with SWAT is honestly getting a bit dramatic even for a TV show. Let's rewind a bit. SWAT which is based on the classic 1975 TV series and 2003 movie has had a rollercoaster ride on CBS.
In May 2023 CBS first cancelled SWAT after season six. Fans were outraged. But then in a twist worthy of a TV drama CBS reversed course just days later and renewed it for a "seventh and final season". Okay a final season but at least it was back right?
Then surprise! In April 2024 CBS changed its mind AGAIN and renewed SWAT for an EIGHTH season mid-way through what was supposed to be its farewell run. It was like "Wait are we getting more SWAT?" Fans were thrilled again and thought maybe the show was invincible. But now here we are in 2025 with cancellation number three and this time it sounds like it is really really final. Third time's the charm for cancellation apparently?
Why the Ax? Money Ratings and Corporate Changes Behind SWAT's Fate
So why is CBS pulling the plug this time? Well it sounds like a mix of factors. Deadline reports that unlike previous years CBS did not even engage in contract talks with Sony Pictures Television the studio that produces SWAT. That's usually a bad sign.
Finances are likely a big part of it. Showrunner Andrew Dettmann hinted at "corporate change" in the industry that might be influencing what shows get renewed. Deadline also notes that CBS has already greenlit new dramas and has potential spin-offs in the works. Tough decisions have to be made about what shows make the cut and which ones don't especially when new shows are being developed.
Ratings wise SWAT while not a massive ratings juggernaut has been a "sturdy performer" especially on Friday nights at 10 PM ET. It averages around .28 in the 18-49 demographic. However compared to other CBS dramas and especially considering it comes from an outside studio SWAT might have been seen as more expendable this time around.
"Heartbreaking News" Showrunner and Producers React to SWAT's Cancellation
Executive producer and showrunner Andrew Dettmann called the cancellation "Heartbreaking News". He emphasized how much of a "pleasure" it has been working with the "extraordinary" cast and crew over eight seasons. Dettmann praised their hard work dedication and ability to overcome "countless challenges." He said he feels "privileged" to have been part of the "SWAT family".
Former showrunner Shawn Ryan also weighed in. He thanked the fans Shemar Moore the cast producers and CBS. Ryan especially thanked the "tireless dedicated crew" saying "My greatest concern right now is for them" as many crew members will now be out of work. SWAT is notable for being one of the few broadcast dramas still filming in Los Angeles so the cancellation impacts the local TV production community as well.
Ryan had previously mentioned concerns about the future of SWAT due to the pending acquisition of CBS parent company Paramount Global by Skydance. Corporate changes and mergers can often lead to shifts in programming priorities and budget cuts making shows like SWAT more vulnerable.
Could SWAT Be Saved Again? Shemar Moore Floats Ideas for a Lazarus-like Revival
Never say never right? Shemar Moore seems to be holding out a sliver of hope for yet another SWAT resurrection. He suggested that CBS might reconsider saying they would "make a lot of people smile" if they changed their mind again. Hey stranger things have happened (like SWAT getting uncancelled twice already!).
Moore even floated the idea of SWAT being picked up by another network or streaming service like Netflix NBC Fox or ABC. He playfully pitched SWAT as a show that’s "on autopilot that the world is watching" and offered to "come play" if anyone else is interested. Could another platform swoop in and save the day for SWAT for a third time? It seems like a long shot but in the unpredictable world of TV you never know.
SWAT's Legacy and What's Next for Hondo
Whether this cancellation sticks or another miracle happens SWAT has had a good run. Eight seasons is nothing to sneeze at especially in today's TV landscape. Shemar Moore himself acknowledged giving "90 percent of the credit" for his 31-year acting career to CBS and shows like SWAT Criminal Minds and Young and the Restless.
Regardless of SWAT's ultimate fate Moore says he is excited for the "next chapter" of his life with his family and daughter. It sounds like he is ready to move forward whatever happens with the show. For now fans are left to process the news and maybe hold out a tiny bit of hope for one more unexpected twist in the cancellation saga of SWAT.
Key Facts About the SWAT Cancellation:
- CBS Cancelled SWAT After Season 8: This is the third time SWAT has been cancelled.
- Shemar Moore Announced the Cancellation: He shared the news in an emotional video on Instagram.
- Showrunner Calls it "Heartbreaking": Andrew Dettmann expressed sadness for the cast and crew.
- Financial Reasons Cited: CBS did not engage in renewal talks with Sony Pictures Television this time.
- Corporate Changes May Have Played a Role: Pending acquisition of CBS parent company mentioned as a factor.
- SWAT Has Been Uncancelled Twice Before: The show has a history of dramatic renewals after cancellation.
- Shemar Moore Hints at Possible Rescue by Another Network/Platform: Suggests Netflix NBC Fox or ABC could pick up SWAT.
- SWAT is a Los Angeles-Based Production: Cancellation impacts local crew and production community.