Let’s be real — when a TV show like SWAT builds a world filled with gritty action, rich character arcs, and social relevance, it deserves to live on. And while fans may be mourning the end of Sergeant Hondo’s storyline, there’s a golden opportunity sitting right in front of us: a prequel centered on Victor Tan.
Imagine the adrenaline, emotion, and early career chaos of a young, determined cop trying to find his way in the LAPD. That’s not just a decent spinoff idea — that’s streaming gold.
Who Is Victor Tan and Why Does He Deserve His Own Show?
The Steady Rock of the Team
Victor Tan isn’t the loudest, but he’s always there when it counts. Calm, composed, and loyal to the bone, Tan is the type of cop you want at your back. But we’ve barely scratched the surface of who he really is. His past is a mystery, and that’s exactly what makes a Tan Academy prequel so exciting.
Picture This — Tan Before the Tactical Vest
A Fresh-Faced Rookie with Big Dreams
Set about a decade before SWAT’s first season, the show could start with Tan joining the LAPD Academy. Think long days of training, late-night self-doubt, and those make-or-break moments that shape someone into the officer we know today.
Grit Meets Growth
It’s not just about guns and gear. It’s about identity, purpose, and pressure. The prequel could explore Tan’s upbringing, his connection to his cultural roots, and the pressure of balancing family expectations with an unpredictable job.
Why “Tan Academy” Is the Perfect Spinoff Title
Let’s be honest — the name slaps. “Tan Academy” is sleek, focused, and memorable. It immediately tells viewers what the show is about without needing an essay. And let’s not forget: prequels with clean, character-driven titles tend to stick (Young Sheldon, anyone?).
Core Themes the Spinoff Could Dive Into
Identity and Legacy
Who is Victor Tan without the badge? This spinoff could show how he evolves from a young recruit into the emotionally Brotherhood in Blue
This is the place to show how real friendships and rivalries are born — long before the 20-Squad. Training days can make or break loyalty.
H3: Culture and Representation
As one of the few high-profile Asian-American characters in law enforcement TV, Tan’s journey could open up conversations around race, stereotypes, and inclusion — without ever feeling preachy.
Building a New Squad of Young Recruits
A great spinoff needs a strong supporting cast. Here’s what that could look like:
The Overachiever
Top of the class, always follows the rules — but has a breaking point.
The Rebel Rookie
Rough past, sharp instincts, and a chip on their shoulder.
The Comic Relief
Lightens the mood but hides deep fears of failure.
The Mentor Figure
Older, maybe a training officer with a haunted past — helps shape Tan’s values.
Each character brings something different, offering both emotional depth and narrative balance.
The Visual Style: Raw, Real, and Urban
Think Less Glossy, More Grit
“Tan Academy” should look different from SWAT. The color palette could be colder, the settings grittier. We’re not in polished tactical command — we’re in the mud, climbing through the ranks.
Ground-Level Action
Instead of helicopter chases and SWAT trucks, think hand-to-hand takedowns in alleyways, foot pursuits through city streets, and tactical drills with real consequences.
Injecting Emotion Without Losing Edge
Sure, SWAT has action — but what makes it special is the heart. “Tan Academy” could double down on that by weaving in personal storylines:
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Family dynamics and expectations
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Tan’s first real heartbreak
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Moments where he questions the job altogether
These arcs would hook audiences who crave more than just explosions.
Crossover Potential with Existing Characters
Who wouldn’t want to see young Hondo walk into the Academy to give a motivational talk? Or maybe a pre-SWATDeacon putting a young Tan through a brutal training exercise? Crossovers wouldn’t just be fan service — they’d deepen the lore and strengthen continuity.
A Smart Move for CBS and Paramount+
Let’s talk business. CBS needs to future-proof its crime drama empire. A Tan spinoff could:
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Attract a younger demographic
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Appeal to underserved communities
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Capitalize on existing fan loyalty
And let’s be real — with streaming platforms hungry for serialized dramas, “Tan Academy” could be the next breakout hit for Paramount+.
Real Issues, Real Stakes
This spinoff could explore serious themes like:
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Mental health in law enforcement
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Officer training ethics
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The blurred line between justice and force
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Navigating implicit bias and systemic issues from day one
Handled with the right nuance, this could elevate the show beyond simple entertainment.
Fan Reactions and Why Timing Is Everything
The SWAT fandom is active, vocal, and emotionally invested. As the series ends, they’ll be looking for something new — but familiar. Dropping a Tan prequel right after the finale? That’s smart timing.
Ending Each Episode With Purpose
“Tan Academy” could feature powerful closing moments. Think voiceovers by future Tan, reflecting on what each lesson meant. It would feel personal, full-circle, and emotionally rich.
Potential Challenges to Avoid
Don’t Over-Sanitize It
We’re dealing with real-world stakes. Keep it raw. Avoid the temptation to gloss over the hard stuff.
Avoid Turning Tan Into a Superhero
He’s human. Let him fail, mess up, learn, and rise. That’s how we connect.
Conclusion — The Badge Begins Here
The story of S.W.A.T. doesn’t have to end with Hondo. It can begin again — with a young Victor Tan stepping into the academy, unsure of the world, but certain of one thing: he’s meant to make a difference. “Tan Academy” isn’t just a spinoff idea — it’s a blueprint for the next phase of a franchise that still has stories to tell, lives to save, and cities to serve.
FAQs
Q1: Would “Tan Academy” include other familiar SWAT characters?
A: Yes, through flash-forwards or mentorship scenes, we could see younger versions or cameos from Hondo, Deacon, or Luca.
Q2: How would this spinoff differ in tone from the original series?
A: It would be more intimate, character-driven, and emotionally grounded, focusing on growth rather than just missions.
Q3: Where would “Tan Academy” likely air?
A: Most likely on CBS or Paramount+, given the parent franchise’s success on those platforms.
Q4: Would it still have action scenes?
A: Absolutely. Just a different kind — more personal, close-quarters, and early-career challenges instead of elite SWAT missions.
Q5: Is there audience demand for a Tan-focused show?
A: Yes. Tan is one of the most relatable and under-explored characters in the series. Fans are already asking for more of his backstory.
