The S.W.A.T. universe is expanding with Shemar Moore’s upcoming spinoff Exiles — but not everyone is celebrating. Series regular David Lim, known for playing Officer Victor Tan, is speaking candidly about being left out of the project, and his reaction is both honest and heartfelt.
“I’d be lying if I said the rollout of the new spinoff didn’t sting.”
With one line, Lim captured what many fans were already feeling.
What Is ‘Exiles’? The S.W.A.T. Spinoff Making Waves
Shemar Moore Leads the New Chapter
CBS has greenlit a S.W.A.T. spinoff titled Exiles, focusing on Hondo (Shemar Moore) in a high-stakes, off-the-grid storyline. It’s set to explore operations outside the traditional LAPD setting — possibly overseas or in black ops territory.
The Big Shock? Lim and Other Core Cast Members Aren’t Involved
While fans expected some familiar faces to carry over, Lim’s absence from the cast announcement raised eyebrows — and sparked frustration online.
David Lim’s Reaction — Not Bitter, But Very Real
“Seven Years on the Job… Then This”
Lim has been a mainstay on S.W.A.T. for seven seasons, bringing depth and relatability to his role. Naturally, being excluded from the next chapter hit hard.
“You dedicate years to something — it’s not about ego, but it would’ve been nice to be part of the next step.”
A Graceful Yet Candid Response
There’s no animosity in Lim’s tone, but there’s clear disappointment, especially in how the announcement unfolded without warning or involvement from original cast members.
Fans Rally Behind Lim — “He Deserved Better”
Twitter/X Reacts Swiftly
The fandom lit up with supportive messages for David Lim. Hashtags like #JusticeForTan and #SWATWithoutTantrended for hours.
-
“Tan carried so many emotional scenes. This is disrespect.”
-
“How do you build a spinoff and not bring the heart of the team?”
Critics of the Show’s Direction
Many are questioning CBS’s handling of the spinoff, with fans feeling like core characters are being sidelined for marketing optics or a flashy relaunch.
Why Victor Tan Matters So Much to S.W.A.T.
Representation and Resonance
Tan has been one of the few Asian-American leads on network TV in a cop drama — a powerful representation that resonated with a diverse audience.
The Team’s Emotional Center
He wasn’t just tactical muscle — Tan brought:
-
Nuance
-
Family values
-
Cultural perspective
-
Emotional vulnerability
Removing him from the spinoff feels like a huge gap, both narratively and symbolically.
A Larger Industry Pattern? Familiar Faces Getting Sidelined
Network TV’s Loyalty Problem
Lim’s exclusion highlights a growing concern in Hollywood: loyal cast members being dropped when shows pivot toward reboots or spinoffs.
It’s not new — but fans are no longer staying quiet about it.
What Lim’s Exclusion Could Mean for the Main Show
Is This a Setup for a Goodbye?
While Lim remains part of the main S.W.A.T. cast for now, fans are nervously speculating this could be the start of a phased exit.
Unless producers course-correct, Season 7 could be Tan’s last ride.
No Hard Feelings Toward Shemar Moore
Lim made it clear: Shemar Moore isn’t the issue.
“Shemar’s a brother. He’s doing what he’s supposed to do. I’ve got love for him.”
This isn’t a feud — it’s a conversation about respect and visibility, especially after seven years of service to a franchise.
What Could CBS Have Done Differently?
Transparency and Inclusion
-
Early conversations with legacy cast
-
Opportunities for cameos or supporting roles
-
Acknowledgment of character arcs built over years
Instead, the rollout felt cold and abrupt.
Will There Be a Fan Push for Tan in ‘Exiles’?
It’s already happening. Viewers are flooding CBS and showrunner accounts asking:
-
“Where’s Tan?”
-
“Why exclude David Lim?”
-
“Can he appear later in the season?”
Networks have reversed decisions before under fan pressure — never say never.
What’s Next for David Lim?
Exploring New Horizons
Lim hinted at upcoming projects but remained vague:
“When one door closes, you knock on another one — or you build your own.”
He may be out of Exiles, but fans are hoping Lim lands a new spotlight — either on CBS or elsewhere.
The Bigger Message — Respecting Your Day-Oners
David Lim’s comments highlight something crucial in entertainment:
🎯 Loyalty matters.
🎯 Long-term characters deserve respect.
🎯 Visibility should grow, not shrink, with success.
Conclusion: David Lim’s Honesty Sparks a Bigger Conversation
David Lim could’ve stayed silent. Instead, he chose honesty — not bitterness — and struck a chord with fans who value authenticity and loyalty.
While Exiles moves forward without him, Lim’s presence is undeniably felt, and his legacy as Victor Tan remains intact. The real question now is: will CBS listen? Or is this the start of a fan-led redemption arc?
Either way, one thing is certain: David Lim is not done telling his story — with or without S.W.A.T.
FAQs
1. Why isn’t David Lim in the ‘Exiles’ spinoff with Shemar Moore?
No official explanation has been given by CBS, but Lim said he wasn’t included in the rollout or conversations, which “stung.”
2. Is David Lim still part of the main S.W.A.T. show?
Yes, he remains a part of the original series — for now.
3. Could Victor Tan appear in the spinoff later?
It’s possible. Nothing has been ruled out, and fans are pushing hard for it.
4. Did Lim blame Shemar Moore?
No. Lim emphasized his respect and support for Moore, making it clear the issue is with how the spinoff was handled.
5. Are other cast members also excluded from ‘Exiles’?
Yes. Lim is one of several original cast members not confirmed for the spinoff, sparking broader discussions about the show’s direction.
Custom Message:
Thank you for reading and supporting the voices that keep the S.W.A.T. legacy alive. Whether it’s through praise or pushback, fan engagement matters more than ever. Stay vocal, stay passionate, and keep showing up for the characters and actors who’ve earned your loyalty.
