Based on what I have seen thus far from NCIS: Hawai’i, I understand the sentiment about its unceremonious ending. Jane Tennant is a brilliant leader. Beyond that, its ensemble is diverse, making for better representation and fresh storylines that couldn’t be done by other procedurals that don’t have the same cast makeup. However, CBS Entertainment president Amy Reisenbach has defended NCIS: Hawai’i’s cancelation, predicting that their revamped lineup has a bigger chance of succeeding. Beyond that, other reports include a cost-management drive and the need for stability in light of the uncertainty of Paramount Global, which is being sold.
If CBS is really looking at growing amid a particularly tumultuous time in the company, then how is greenlighting a procedural that has failed twice to get a series order a better business decision than keeping an already established and growing show like NCIS: Hawai’i? The network is trying to get the Einstein revival remake off the ground for the third time. I’m sure it has its appeal, but it’s an odd time to keep investing in something that has been stuck in development limbo for a while, considering what’s happening business-wise to CBS and its larger company.
Let’s be honest—Hollywood’s obsession with remakes is nothing new. But CBS’s latest move has fans scratching their heads. The network is reviving a procedural that’s already flopped not once, but twice. So, what’s the game plan here? Is CBS desperate for nostalgia, or do they actually have a winning formula this time around?
What Is This Mystery Procedural Remake?
While CBS hasn’t made the full announcement public, insider reports confirm they’re working on a third attempt at reviving a procedural drama that just didn’t stick with viewers in the past.
Spoiler alert: If a show failed twice, there’s a reason. But let’s dig into why CBS keeps coming back to it.
Why Procedurals Are CBS’s Bread and Butter
CBS practically owns the procedural genre. From NCIS to Blue Bloods, their lineup is filled with crime-solving, case-cracking, one-hour formats that keep audiences coming back for more.
So it makes sense that they’d want to squeeze every last drop out of a familiar formula—even if the past attempts didn’t quite hit the mark.
The Show That Wouldn’t Die – A Brief History
Let’s rewind.
This show first aired in the early 2000s. It tanked.
CBS tried again about a decade later. Again, viewers weren’t feeling it. Critics tore it apart. Ratings were ice cold.
So now—somehow—it’s back in development. You might be wondering: Are they just out of ideas?
Why Do Networks Keep Remaking Failed Shows?
Great question.
There are a few reasons:
-
Brand recognition: Even flops have name value.
-
Streaming appeal: Reviving older shows creates bingeable backlogs.
-
Changing audience tastes: Maybe it’ll click now?
-
Cheaper than new IP: It’s way easier (and safer) to reboot than start from scratch.
But… Why This One Again?
Here’s where things get weird. Out of all the procedural options out there—CBS picked one that’s already belly-flopped twice.
It’s the TV equivalent of going back to an ex… after being ghosted twice.
What’s Different This Time Around?
CBS insiders claim this new version will be “grittier” and “more grounded.” Translation: they’re trying to make it dark and edgy, which is trending big time right now (thanks, True Detective).
They’re also reportedly bringing in new showrunners, reworking character arcs, and possibly tapping into current social themes to give it relevance.
Casting Rumors Already Stirring Buzz
Rumors are flying that some big names are being approached—think streaming-era stars with serious range. That could bring in a whole new audience.
And if there’s one thing TV fans love, it’s a familiar face in a new role.
Could Streaming Save This Show?
Absolutely. Streaming has changed everything. A show that doesn’t work on broadcast might blow up on Paramount+ if it finds the right niche.
Shorter seasons, binge drops, and algorithmic promotion could give this remake the boost it never got before.
The Risk of Franchise Fatigue
Here’s the flip side: viewers are getting burnt out.
Not every cop show can be the next NCIS. And with streaming offering fresher, more innovative storytelling, CBS needs more than a recycled plot to compete.
What CBS Needs to Do Differently This Time
To stand out, CBS has to:
-
Update the storytelling format (less “case-of-the-week,” more long arcs)
-
Introduce truly diverse leads with depth and nuance
-
Ditch the clichés that plagued earlier versions
-
Lean into modern production value (no more “set of the week” vibes)
Audience Engagement Will Be Everything
In 2025, it’s not just about the show—it’s about the conversation around the show. CBS needs viral trailers, TikTok buzz, Reddit theories. Otherwise, this remake dies quietly. Again.
Procedurals Are Changing—CBS Has to Adapt
Look at how shows like The Rookie and Only Murders in the Building blend genres and twist expectations. That’s the blueprint now. CBS can’t just plug-and-play like it did in 2006. It has to innovate, or risk becoming irrelevant.
Will Nostalgia Be Enough?
Nostalgia is powerful—but it’s also fickle. Unless this reboot offers something truly new, older fans won’t return, and younger viewers won’t care.
Could This Actually Work?
Weirdly… yes.
If CBS learns from past mistakes, adapts to today’s trends, and delivers something actually compelling, this could be a surprise hit.
There’s precedent. SWAT struggled at first—and now it’s a staple.
Or Could It Flop Again Spectacularly?
Also yes. If this ends up being a paint-by-numbers rehash, it’ll bomb faster than a Monday night pilot. And in this content-saturated world, flops don’t get second chances anymore.
Final Thoughts – Third Time Lucky or Third Strike?
So here we are: CBS is gambling on a procedural that’s already failed twice. It could be bold. It could be brilliant. Or it could be another swing-and-a-miss in a long line of forgettable reboots. Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure—we’ll all be watching, if only to see if they finally get it right.
