Shemar Moore celebrated the exciting renewal of S.W.A.T. at the CBS Fall Schedule Celebration in Hollywood. The actor, who has been the heart of the series as Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, reflected on the show’s journey and the potential return of fan-favorite characters.
A Rollercoaster Journey
After six seasons, S.W.A.T. faced cancellation in 2023, only to be brought back for a seventh season due to a passionate fan campaign led by Moore himself. Just last month, CBS announced the show would continue for an eighth season, much to the delight of its dedicated audience.
The Season 7 Finale: A Dual Purpose
As the show gears up for its Season 7 finale on May 17, Moore revealed that the finale was crafted with both possibilities in mind: it could serve as a series conclusion or a fresh start. “We were smart about how we approached the finale,” Moore told Deadline on the red carpet. “At the tail end of the strike, I gathered the producers and writers and said, ‘If this is it, let’s go out with a bang.’ We wanted to give viewers our signature—action-packed scenes with helicopters, chases, and fight sequences.”
He emphasized that while they prepared for a grand exit, they also left the door open for new beginnings. “We didn’t change anything in the writing; it’s shaped to either be our swan song or our new beginning.”
Will Fan Favorites Return?
With the renewal for Season 8, fans are curious about the potential return of Alex Russell and Kenny Johnson, who said their goodbyes at the end of Season 7. Moore expressed his fondness for the duo, acknowledging the difficulty of losing them. “Change is hard, but nobody died,” he stated. “In Hollywood, anything can happen.”
He reassured fans that with the dynamic nature of the entertainment industry, there’s always a chance for their beloved characters to make a comeback.
Embracing New Dynamics
As S.W.A.T. moves forward, the series will feature a mix of original cast members, including Moore, Jay Harrington (Deacon), Patrick St. Esprit (Hicks), and David Lim (Tan), along with new faces. This blend promises to keep the show fresh while honoring the legacy of its past characters.
Conclusion
As S.W.A.T. wraps up its seventh season, fans are left eagerly anticipating what lies ahead in Season 8. With Shemar Moore at the helm, the show promises to continue delivering thrilling action and engaging storylines. Will Alex Russell and Kenny Johnson return? Only time will tell, but the excitement for the future is palpable!
