CBS 2025 TV Shake-Up: What’s In, What’s Out, and What’s Saying Goodbye
The television landscape is always changing, but CBS’s 2025 announcement sent shockwaves across its viewership. With six shows officially canceled, numerous fan favorites renewed, and a single beloved series slated for a final farewell next year, there’s plenty to unpack.
Whether you’re mourning a cancellation or celebrating a renewal, this guide will walk you through everything CBS is changing in 2025. So grab your remote, and let’s dig in.
💣 CBS Axes 6 Shows in One Major Sweep
CBS isn’t afraid to trim the fat. In 2025, the network swung the axe on six scripted and unscripted series. While some had been on shaky ground for seasons, others were unexpected cuts that left fans fuming.
1. “So Help Me Todd” — Gone for Good
This legal dramedy showed promise, but declining ratings and a lukewarm second season reception sealed its fate. CBS officially pulled the plug in May 2025.
2. “CSI: Vegas” — Crime Franchise Fatigue?
Despite riding the coattails of the legendary “CSI” brand, “CSI: Vegas” struggled to live up to its legacy. It didn’t survive the 2025 renewal round.
3. “Bob Hearts Abishola” — Love Doesn’t Always Last
The quirky sitcom that followed an unexpected romance concluded in early 2025. Low ratings and contract limitations ended its run.
4. “East New York” — A One-Season Wonder
This NYPD procedural never really found its audience. It joins the long list of police dramas that fizzled fast.
5. “True Lies” — The Reboot That Didn’t Stick
Reimagining the 1994 action-comedy classic was a bold move, but the show never gained traction. Critics and viewers weren’t impressed.
6. “Lotería Loca” — Game Over
The high-energy game show hosted by Jaime Camil failed to attract consistent viewership. CBS didn’t gamble on another season.
✅ CBS Fan Favorites Officially Renewed for 2025-2026
Luckily, many beloved CBS shows are sticking around. The network knows where its bread is buttered — and fans can breathe easy knowing these favorites are safe:
“NCIS” — Still the King
Even in its 22nd season, “NCIS” reigns supreme. Its renewal proves it’s still a cornerstone of CBS primetime.
“Young Sheldon” — Final Season, Big Expectations
Technically renewed for its final season in 2025, “Young Sheldon” will wrap its wildly successful run in early 2026.
“The Equalizer” — Queen Latifah Isn’t Done Yet
The reboot starring Queen Latifah remains a strong performer and has earned another season.
“Ghosts” — Haunting Us for Another Year
This supernatural sitcom continues to be one of CBS’s most critically acclaimed and fan-loved shows.
“Blue Bloods” — The Family Dinner Continues
Though its fate was once uncertain, CBS gave this long-running drama a lifeline. Fans can expect more Reagan family dinners.
“FBI” Franchise — Still Dominating Tuesdays
All three shows — “FBI,” “FBI: Most Wanted,” and “FBI: International” — are coming back.
🛑 One Major CBS Series Is Ending in 2026
While some shows are canceled due to performance, others conclude on their own terms. CBS confirmed that one fan-favorite series will wrap up in 2026 with a planned, emotional final season.
“Young Sheldon” to End With Season 8
CBS announced that the coming season will be the last for “Young Sheldon.” Set to explore Sheldon’s life leading into his “Big Bang Theory” years, the finale will tie up major character arcs and leave fans teary-eyed.
📊 Why Did CBS Cancel So Many Shows in 2025?
Let’s break down the decision-making behind the curtain. What leads a network to cut half a dozen shows at once?
Low Ratings Still Rule
Even in the era of streaming metrics and social media buzz, Nielsen ratings remain powerful. Shows that don’t hold up in their time slot are quick to disappear.
Budget Constraints
Network TV isn’t immune to economic headwinds. Big budgets, shrinking ad revenue, and rising actor salaries forced CBS to tighten its belt.
Streaming Disruption
With Paramount+ taking center stage, CBS is streamlining content across platforms. Some shows may find a second life on streaming, but others are left in the dust.
📺 How Fans Are Reacting to the CBS 2025 Lineup Changes
Fans took to Twitter, Reddit, and fan forums to voice their feelings — and they weren’t subtle.
Anger Over “CSI: Vegas”
Die-hard fans of the original “CSI” are furious about the cancellation. They argue it deserved more time to find its footing.
Heartbreak Over “Young Sheldon” Ending
While not a shock, the final season announcement still hit hard for fans who grew up with Sheldon Cooper in this prequel.
Joy Over “NCIS” Renewals
The “NCIS” fandom remains one of TV’s most loyal, and they’re celebrating another year of crimes, quips, and Gibbs-less team dynamics.
🗓️ CBS 2025-2026 Schedule: What to Expect
Here’s a quick look at how CBS’s primetime lineup is shaping up post-cancellations:
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Mondays: “The Neighborhood,” “Bob Hearts Abishola” reruns, “NCIS”
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Tuesdays: All FBI series
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Wednesdays: “Survivor,” “The Amazing Race,” New Drama TBD
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Thursdays: “Young Sheldon” Final Season, “Ghosts,” “So Help Me Todd” replaced by new comedy
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Fridays: “Blue Bloods,” “SWAT”
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Sundays: “60 Minutes,” “The Equalizer,” New Series TBD
🕵️ Hidden Gems: CBS Pilots That Might Replace the Canceled Shows
CBS isn’t just canceling — it’s also developing fresh content. A few buzzworthy pilots could debut in the fall:
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“Watson” — A modern spin-off of Sherlock Holmes with a medical twist.
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“Elsbeth” — A quirky legal dramedy led by a fan-favorite character from “The Good Wife.”
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“Matlock” — Yes, it’s a reboot, and yes, Kathy Bates is in it.
💬 What CBS Executives Are Saying About These Bold Moves
Kelly Kahl, CBS’s Entertainment President, commented:
“Our 2025 lineup reflects a balance of fan-favorite staples and fresh new voices. While it’s always tough to say goodbye to shows, we’re excited about what’s next.”
Translation? CBS is cleaning house — but there’s a plan behind the madness.
🔮 What This Means for the Future of CBS Programming
This isn’t just about 2025. These choices hint at a strategic shift in how CBS plans to evolve.
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More streaming synergy with Paramount+
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Fewer middle-of-the-road performers
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Increased focus on high-performing franchises
Expect CBS to double down on what works and pull the plug faster on what doesn’t.
Conclusion: Change Is the Only Constant in TV Land
CBS’s 2025 overhaul may sting for some fans, but it also sets the stage for the next chapter. With some old favorites sticking around and new contenders on the horizon, the network is betting big on its future — and hoping viewers stick around for the ride.
FAQs
1. Why did CBS cancel so many shows in 2025?
CBS canceled six shows due to low ratings, budget constraints, and strategic realignment with Paramount+ content priorities.
2. Is “Young Sheldon” really ending?
Yes, CBS confirmed that Season 8 will be the final season, scheduled to conclude in 2026.
3. Which CBS shows are coming back in 2025?
Renewed shows include “NCIS,” “The Equalizer,” “Ghosts,” “Blue Bloods,” and all “FBI” spinoffs.
4. Will any canceled CBS shows be picked up elsewhere?
While it’s possible, none of the canceled CBS shows for 2025 have confirmed pickups by other networks or streamers yet.
5. What’s replacing the canceled CBS shows?
CBS is developing several pilots, including “Watson,” “Elsbeth,” and “Matlock,” all of which could debut in the 2025-2026 season.
