The action-packed series S.W.A.T., which first premiered in 2017, has proven to be just as resilient as its on-screen characters. Following the adventures of LAPD Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson and his specialized tactical team, the show has narrowly dodged cancellation not once, but twice, making an unexpected return for an eighth season.
Despite earlier announcements that Season 7 would be the show’s swan song, CBS surprised fans by greenlighting Season 8, which is set to feature 22 new episodes slated to air during the 2024/2025 fall season.
Shemar Moore on S.W.A.T.’s Miraculous Comeback
Speaking exclusively with theSun, Shemar Moore—who has been the series lead and an executive producer since the show’s debut—shared his excitement and gratitude for the show’s renewal. “I’m so proud and excited. It’s like a miracle because I know what we just achieved is not normal. It doesn’t happen very often in this business,” Moore expressed.
The actor and producer recounted how he motivated the team to keep pushing forward when they initially learned Season 7 would be their last. “I told everybody—cast, writers, and crew—that just like in boxing, when you get hit, you take a breath, get up, and finish the fight. You might lose, but you keep fighting. And if you don’t quit, sometimes you win. And that’s what happened here,” he said.
Facing Pressure and Raising the Bar
Moore acknowledged that the uncertainty surrounding Season 7 placed a great deal of pressure on the team to deliver high-quality episodes. The goal was to create 13 compelling episodes, leaving no stone unturned. “We put a lot of pressure on ourselves this year,” Moore explained. “We wanted the writers to craft strong stories, the actors to give their best performances, and the crew to come in with positivity, thinking this might not be the end.”
A Strong Finish and a Fresh Start
With the surprise renewal for Season 8, Moore hinted that fans can expect even bigger and more intense storylines as Season 7 draws to a close. “Now that we know Season 8 is coming, everyone can enjoy Season 7 because it’s not officially over yet,” he teased.
The current season has shown Hondo’s team struggling, with key members like Chris, Street, and Luca departing, and Deacon contemplating retirement. Hondo, feeling the strain of these changes, grapples with the idea that everything he’s built is slipping away. But, as Moore revealed, “In the final episode, you’ll see the S.W.A.T. team reclaim their mojo and swagger. It’s going to leave fans feeling happy, excited, and eager for more.”
The Evolution of Hondo
Reflecting on his role, Moore expressed deep appreciation for the complexity and growth of his character, Sergeant Hondo. “I love that Hondo has to prove himself every day. He’s a tough, no-nonsense leader, but there are layers to him—he’s a family man, striving for his father’s approval, deeply caring for his mother, and now he’s a husband and a father to a little girl.”
Moore added, “Hondo isn’t perfect. He has his flaws and struggles, but he keeps fighting for his team and his values. It’s been fascinating to explore his evolution over the years, from his superhero persona to his human vulnerabilities.”
A Tribute to the Fans
As S.W.A.T. prepares for its upcoming season, Moore extended heartfelt thanks to the fans, crediting them for the show’s continued success. “I have to say thank you to the fans all around the world. Without their support, we wouldn’t have pulled this off. Not only did we get uncancelled, but we got uncancelled twice, two years in a row. That really is a testament to the fans.”
What’s Next?
Catch new episodes of S.W.A.T. Season 8 on AXN this fall, Thursdays at 9:45 p.m., and join Hondo and his team as they take on new challenges, proving once again that this elite squad is here to stay.
