The Bitter Farewell No One Asked For
If you’ve been riding with S.W.A.T. from the start, you know Commander Robert Hicks isn’t just another character—he’s a backbone of the team. Tough, wise, and loyal to a fault. But in Season 8, as the show marches toward its finale, it looks like Hicks might be getting a well-earned send-off… only, it’s delivered in a way that feels more like a backhanded compliment than a tribute.
Let’s break down what makes Hicks’ potential exit so frustrating, despite it being the “best ending” he could’ve asked for on paper.
Who Is Commander Hicks, Really?
Before we dive into the drama, let’s talk about the man himself. Hicks, played brilliantly by Patrick St. Esprit, has served as a pillar of leadership since early in the series. As S.W.A.T.’s commander, he walked a tightrope between politics, ethics, and boots-on-the-ground action.
More Than a Suit
He’s not just the guy who gives orders—he’s the one who’s had Hondo’s back when it counted. He’s taken heat from brass, made tough calls, and held the line when others wavered. Over time, he became the father figure to the team.
The Season 8 Setup—A Graceful Exit?
So, what’s the big issue? On the surface, Season 8 seems to be setting up Hicks for a graceful retirement. The kind that says, “Thank you for your service. You earned this.” Sounds good, right?
Not so fast.
Timing Is Everything
The problem isn’t that Hicks is leaving. It’s how it’s being handled. Instead of building tension around his farewell, or giving him a highlight reel of legacy moments, the show is quietly nudging him toward the door. No fanfare. No proper goodbye.
Blink and You’ll Miss It
In recent episodes, there’s been subtle talk of Hicks stepping down. But it’s happening off to the side, in passing moments. For a character with his impact, that’s like sending your favorite teacher off with a Post-it note that says “Good luck.”
Why Fans Feel Disrespected
Let’s not sugarcoat it—fans are annoyed. Social media’s been buzzing with reactions, and the common theme is: “Hicks deserved more.” After everything he’s contributed, both on-screen and symbolically, this low-key exit feels like a slap in the face.
A Character Who Held the Line
This is the guy who helped clean house when corruption crept in. Who kept the peace between Hondo and the higher-ups. Who faced down bureaucratic pressure without flinching. And now we’re just… phasing him out?
Loyalty Should Be Rewarded, Not Forgotten
TV is full of loud exits—some noble, some tragic. But the quiet fade-out of Hicks doesn’t match his importance. It feels like the show is brushing him under the rug to focus on younger or more “marketable” characters.
What Hicks’ Ideal Send-Off Should’ve Looked Like
So what should have happened? Let’s imagine a send-off worthy of the man.
One Last Mission
A final operation where Hicks steps in, saves the day, and then chooses to walk away on his terms. Maybe a heartfelt scene with Hondo, passing the torch. A salute. A slow fade. Not a background mention in a team meeting.
A Ceremony or Tribute
How about a retirement ceremony? Medals. Flashbacks. Applause from the entire precinct. Something to show the audience—and the character—that his contributions were seen, valued, and celebrated.
The Real-World Reason Behind the Decision?
Let’s be honest—TV decisions are often driven by contracts, budgets, or shifting creative visions. Maybe Patrick St. Esprit chose to step back. Maybe the writers had other priorities. But even so, longtime viewers deserve a payoff.
Was Hicks a Casualty of Streamlined Storytelling?
With Season 8 possibly being the last, the showrunners might be trimming fat to focus on core arcs. But trimming Hicks? That’s not cutting fat—that’s severing a limb.
The Legacy Hicks Leaves Behind
No matter how his exit is handled, Hicks has left a mark. His guidance shaped the team. His values anchored the story. And his presence elevated every scene he was in.
Respect Where It’s Due
Even if the show doesn’t give him a curtain call, fans can honor his journey. From day one, Hicks has stood for loyalty, leadership, and justice—something that should never be quietly shelved.
What This Means for S.W.A.T.’s Endgame
This mishandling might be a warning sign. If a character like Hicks can be pushed aside, what does that mean for the rest of the team? Will Hondo get the ending he deserves? Will the show prioritize meaningful closure—or just wrap things up and roll credits?
A Call to Writers—Finish Strong
The fans aren’t asking for a miracle. Just recognition. Closure. A moment. Hicks deserved that. And so do the viewers who’ve followed him through every mission.
Conclusion
S.W.A.T. Season 8 may have the best of intentions by setting up Hicks for a peaceful exit—but intention doesn’t always equal execution. When a character like Commander Hicks is treated like a footnote instead of a legend, fans notice. And they remember. The best endings honor the journey, not just the destination. Here’s hoping the remaining episodes give him at least one final moment that feels worthy of everything he’s stood for.
FAQs
1. Is Commander Hicks leaving S.W.A.T. in Season 8?
Yes, signs point toward a quiet retirement for Hicks, though it hasn’t been officially dramatized in a major way yet.
2. Why are fans upset about Hicks’ exit?
Many feel the show is not giving Hicks the attention and respect his character deserves, especially after years of key involvement.
3. Who plays Commander Hicks on S.W.A.T.?
Patrick St. Esprit portrays Hicks and has been with the series for most of its run.
4. Could Hicks return before the series ends?
It’s possible. If fan demand is strong enough, the writers might give him a proper send-off in a future episode.
5. Is Season 8 the final season of S.W.A.T.?
There’s been no official confirmation, but rumors suggest that Season 8 may wrap up the show.
