It looks like Blue Bloods isn’t the only canceled CBS hit getting a second chance. Less than 48 hours after its emotional series finale aired, SWAT has officially been revived—sort of. While the original show has ended after eight action-packed seasons, fans can rejoice: SWAT will live on through a brand-new spinoff series!
Sony Pictures Television has announced the upcoming spinoff, SWAT: Exiles, with none other than Shemar Moore returning to reprise his beloved role as Hondo. Though his time with the 20-Squad might have come to an end on CBS, Hondo’s story is far from over.
What Is SWAT: Exiles About?
In SWAT: Exiles, Hondo is pulled out of forced retirement to lead a brand-new team after a high-stakes mission ends in disaster. This fresh squad isn’t your typical elite unit—they’re untested, unpredictable, and on the edge of being cast out of the system altogether. It’s up to Hondo to shape these outsiders into a cohesive team, all while defending the integrity of the SWAT program itself.
This bold new direction promises the same pulse-pounding action and emotional depth that made SWAT a standout, but with a new generation of characters and stories to explore.
Shemar Moore Speaks Out
Shemar Moore, who has been at the center of the franchise since the beginning, expressed his excitement in a statement about the spinoff:
“My eight seasons on SWAT have been epic and memorable. We entertained the world, defied the odds, came back from the dead twice, and continued to woo fans and families worldwide. I am excited for this next generation and iteration of SWAT with Sony. Katherine Pope, Neal H. Moritz, Jason Ning, and I will keep the franchise, thrill ride action, heartfelt drama, and storytelling of SWAT alive. WE DON’T LOSE!!!! ROLL SWAT!!!”
Moore has long been a vocal advocate for the show and its fans, playing a key role in getting the series uncanceled—twice. It’s no surprise he’s leading the charge once again to keep the franchise alive.
What We Know (And Don’t Know) So Far
While Moore is confirmed to lead SWAT: Exiles, details about the rest of the cast are still under wraps. There’s a chance some familiar faces from the original series could make guest appearances, but it’s clear the focus will be on a new team and a fresh story arc.
There’s also no official word yet on where the new series will air. While SWAT originally aired on CBS, it’s unclear whether the network will pick up Exiles. A strong candidate is Paramount+, which has become the streaming home for other CBS procedural revivals like Criminal Minds: Evolution. That said, a platform like Netflix or even a rival broadcast network such as NBC could also show interest.
What is confirmed is that Sony has greenlit a 10-episode first season, with production set to begin this summer.
The Future of the SWAT Franchise
Though SWAT fans were disappointed to see the original series come to a close, SWAT: Exiles offers hope—and excitement—for the franchise’s future. With Moore back in action, a fresh team dynamic, and high-stakes drama guaranteed, the spinoff is shaping up to be a worthy continuation of the story.
Stay tuned for more updates on casting, a premiere date, and where you’ll be able to stream or watch SWAT: Exiles. For now, fans can rest easy knowing that Hondo’s mission isn’t over just yet.
