Introduction: A Major Shake-Up in CBS’s Lineup
CBS has made significant changes to its programming slate for the 2025-2026 season, canceling several shows while renewing others and announcing the end of one long-running series. Here’s a breakdown of the network’s latest decisions.
Canceled Shows
-
The Equalizer
After five successful seasons, CBS has decided to cancel The Equalizer, starring Queen Latifah. The final episode, titled “Decisions,” aired as the series finale. According to CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach, the decision was part of a broader restructuring to make room for new programming in the 2025-2026 season . -
FBI: Most Wanted
The popular spin-off of FBI has been canceled after six seasons. The decision was driven by cost-cutting measures and a crowded slate of crime procedurals, especially with talks of a potential FBI: CIA spin-off . -
FBI: International
Another casualty of the network’s programming shake-up, FBI: International has been canceled after four seasons. The show’s cancellation follows similar reasons as its predecessor . -
S.W.A.T.
After initially being canceled in 2023 and then revived for two more seasons due to fan demand, S.W.A.T. has been canceled again. The decision was influenced by shifting renewal criteria under new network leadership and lower ratings compared to other CBS hits . -
The Neighborhood
Cedric the Entertainer’s sitcom The Neighborhood will conclude with its eighth and final season in the 2025-2026 broadcast season. CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach praised the show’s “levity, laughter, and poignant storylines,” but the network decided it was time to close this chapter . -
The Summit
The reality competition series The Summit, which challenged contestants to scale a treacherous mountain for a cash prize, has been canceled after just one season. Despite its thrilling premise, the show failed to capture enough viewers to secure a second season . -
Poppa’s House
Starring Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr., the sitcom Poppa’s House explored generational family dynamics. Despite its star power, the show struggled to find its footing and was canceled after one season .
Renewed Shows
Despite the cancellations, CBS has renewed several popular series for the 2025-2026 season:
-
NCIS
The flagship procedural drama has been renewed for a 23rd season . -
NCIS: Origins
The prequel series exploring the early years of Leroy Jethro Gibbs has been renewed for a second season . -
NCIS: Sydney
The Australian-set spin-off has been renewed for a third season . -
Ghosts
The supernatural comedy has been given a two-season pickup, ensuring its return for both the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 seasons . -
Fire Country
The firefighter drama has been renewed for a fourth season -
Tracker
The #1 entertainment series has been renewed for a third season . -
Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage
The #1 comedy has been renewed for a second season .Hollywood Squares
The #1 new unscripted series has been renewed for a second season . -
Matlock
The reboot starring Kathy Bates has been renewed for a second season . -
Watson
The medical drama with detective elements, starring Morris Chestnut, has been renewed for a second season, set to return as a mid-season replacement in Spring 2026 .
Series Ending in 2026
CBS has announced that The Neighborhood will conclude with its eighth and final season in the 2025-2026 broadcast season
Conclusion
CBS’s 2025-2026 season brings a mix of farewells and fresh beginnings. While several beloved shows have been canceled, the network continues to invest in its successful franchises and new content, ensuring a diverse lineup for viewers.
FAQs
1. Why was The Equalizer canceled?
CBS decided to cancel The Equalizer after five seasons as part of a broader restructuring to make room for new programming in the 2025-2026 season .
2. Will S.W.A.T. be picked up by another network?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for S.W.A.T. to be picked up by another network.
