In an unexpected turn of events, CBS has renewed SWAT for an eighth season, surprising fans after previously canceling the series and labeling its current season as the final one. The crime drama, starring Shemar Moore, continues to captivate audiences, leading the network to change its course once more.
The decision comes just days after CBS had announced that the May 17 episode would be the series finale, following negotiations with Sony Pictures Television over licensing fees and a reduced episode order. Despite earlier billing it as the end, SWAT will now return for the 2024-25 season, joining other CBS dramas such as Fire Country, NCIS, and the entire FBI franchise.
“Here at CBS, we always ‘stay liquid’ and love a good dramatic twist, especially when it leads to an eighth season of SWAT,” said Amy Reisenbach, president of CBS Entertainment. “The show resonates with viewers thanks to our talented cast led by Shemar Moore and our amazing writers and producers who keep the action fresh and relevant.”
Katherine Pope, president of Sony Pictures TV Studios, praised the show’s passionate fan base. “Led by the unstoppable Shemar Moore, SWAT has captivated viewers since its premiere in 2017. We are grateful to CBS for their continued belief in the show and the incredible work of the cast and crew,” she said.
While the episode count for season eight has yet to be confirmed, discussions about the show’s future had previously revolved around budget constraints and the desire for a reduced episode order. Last year, a deal was reached for a 13-episode season, reflecting CBS’s focus on managing costs in scripted programming.
Executive producer and co-showrunner Shawn Ryan expressed his gratitude for the renewal, stating, “This pickup is a testament to our dedicated cast and crew who continue to produce television that resonates with so many people.”
Ryan’s co-showrunner, Andy Dettmann, noted that he and Moore had faith in the show’s potential. “This is the well-deserved payoff for all the time, energy, and effort put in by an incredible cast and crew,” he said.
Currently, SWAT is averaging 8.8 million viewers across five weeks of viewing, including streaming on Paramount+ and CBS apps—an impressive 11 percent increase from last season.
Moore, who also serves as an executive producer, expressed pride in the show’s journey. “I am so grateful to the fans around the world who have supported and rooted for SWAT. It is entirely because of their support that SWAT will continue to shine,” he said.
Created by Ryan and Aaron Rashaan Thomas, SWAT is based on the 1975 ABC series of the same name. The show is produced by Ryan, Dettmann, Justin Lin, Neal H. Moritz, Marney Hochman, Pavun Shetty, Billy Gierhart, Moore, and James Scura. As the show gears up for another season, fans can look forward to more thrilling stories and action-packed episodes.
