It’s official: the world of S.W.A.T. is expanding. CBS just announced a 10-episode order for a brand-new spinoff series, and guess who’s front and center? None other than Shemar Moore, the heart and soul of the original reboot. If you thought Hondo’s story was done, think again.
This move signals CBS’s confidence in the franchise—and in Moore’s magnetic screen presence. Here’s everything we know (and love) about the upcoming series.
🎬 What Is the New S.W.A.T. Spinoff All About?
A Deeper Dive Into Hondo’s World
The untitled spinoff will follow Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, played by Shemar Moore, as he takes on a new assignment—one that expands beyond Los Angeles.
A New Mission, New Team, New City?
While plot specifics are being kept under wraps, early reports suggest the series will have a more global or cross-jurisdictional feel, potentially taking Hondo and his team beyond the borders of L.A.
Think: FBI collaborations, international threats, and elite-level operations. Basically, S.W.A.T. meets Jason Bourne.
⭐ Shemar Moore’s Return: Why It Matters
Let’s be honest—S.W.A.T. without Shemar Moore just isn’t S.W.A.T. The actor brings charisma, intensity, and a unique emotional core to his role as Hondo.
When fans rallied online after the original show was briefly canceled, it was clear: the people want Moore. CBS listened—and now he’s not just back, he’s taking the lead in an entirely new chapter.
📺 The Original S.W.A.T. Reboot: A Quick Refresher
Before diving deeper into what’s next, let’s rewind:
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The modern S.W.A.T. reboot premiered in 2017, modernizing the 1975 original.
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It starred Moore as Hondo, a former Marine and L.A. native caught between two worlds: his roots in the community and his duties as a law enforcement leader.
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The show tackled everything from gang violence to racial injustice, all while delivering blockbuster action.
🚨 Why the Spinoff Makes Total Sense
A Franchise Built to Expand
S.W.A.T. already gave us six action-packed seasons full of compelling stories, diverse characters, and social commentary. The structure of the show—with different squads, city-wide operations, and national-level cases—lends itself perfectly to a spinoff.
In short, there’s way more to explore. And we’re here for it.
🌍 Potential Locations for the New Series
Could Hondo Go Global?
Rumors point to Hondo being assigned to a special task force, possibly working across multiple U.S. cities or even overseas.
This could open the door to:
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New cast members
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Diverse urban backdrops
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Politically charged storylines
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New threats far more advanced than the L.A. gangs we’ve seen before
It’s S.W.A.T. on steroids.
🎥 Production Timeline and Release Window
When Will the S.W.A.T. Spinoff Premiere?
CBS has greenlit 10 episodes, which typically suggests a midseason debut. If filming kicks off in late 2025, expect a Spring or Fall 2026 premiere on CBS and Paramount+.
The compact season also allows for higher production value, tighter storytelling, and possibly a serialized arc.
👥 Will Any Other Cast Members Return?
While Moore is confirmed, other familiar faces could pop in and out. Expect guest appearances or crossovers with characters from the original series like:
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David “Deacon” Kay (Jay Harrington)
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Christina “Chris” Alonso (Lina Esco)
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Victor Tan (David Lim)
This could mirror how other franchises like NCIS and Chicago P.D. handle spinoffs—keeping things connected but giving the new series room to breathe.
📡 Tying Into the Larger CBS Procedural Universe
CBS is leaning heavily into its shared procedural universe, and the S.W.A.T. spinoff could easily cross over with shows like:
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FBI
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NCIS
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The Equalizer
Imagine Hondo teaming up with Special Agent Omar Adom “OA” Zidan or Robyn McCall from The Equalizer. Crossovers = ratings gold.
💬 What the Fans Are Saying
S.W.A.T. fans are already hyped. After the outcry when the original series faced cancellation, this spinoff feels like a gift to the fans.
Online reaction has been overwhelmingly positive:
“Shemar Moore deserves this. Hondo’s not done yet.”
“Finally, a network listening to fans. This is how it’s done!”
“10 episodes? We’ll take it. Just keep the fire coming!”
📊 The Impact of Fan Campaigns
The original S.W.A.T. cancellation sparked major backlash. Moore even posted on Instagram calling it “a mistake.” The fan support was so fierce that CBS reversed its decision.
Now? That same passion helped launch a spinoff. Proof that when fans speak, networks sometimes listen.
🧠 What This Means for the Future of the Franchise
This new series could serve as a test run for more S.W.A.T. universe expansions. If ratings hold strong, don’t be surprised to see:
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A second season order
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Additional spin-offs set in other cities
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Crossover events with CBS’s FBI or NCIS teams
CBS is clearly looking to build out its action-drama empire. And S.W.A.T. is a strong cornerstone.
📝 In a Nutshell
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Shemar Moore is officially back in a S.W.A.T. spinoff
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10-episode order confirmed
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Likely premiere: 2026
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New mission, new city, new threats
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And yes—it’s going to be 🔥
🔚 Conclusion: Shemar Moore’s Hondo Is Far From Done
S.W.A.T. isn’t just about high-stakes gunfights or tactical takedowns. At its core, it’s a show about leadership, community, and what it means to serve. And with Shemar Moore back in action, this new spinoff isn’t just exciting—it’s essential.
Get ready, because Hondo’s story is about to enter a whole new phase—and it’s going to be one hell of a ride.
🙋 5 Unique FAQs
1. Is the S.W.A.T. spinoff a reboot or a continuation?
It’s a continuation featuring Hondo, picking up after the events of the original series.
2. Will the new S.W.A.T. spinoff air on CBS or Paramount+?
CBS will air the show, with next-day streaming likely available on Paramount+.
3. Are there any confirmed crossover episodes?
Not yet, but CBS has a history of cross-show collaborations, so it’s very likely.
4. Why only 10 episodes?
This could be a midseason test run or limited-series format to gauge interest and allow for more focused storytelling.
5. What makes this spinoff different from the original?
Expect a bigger scope—more global threats, new cities, and a deeper dive into Hondo’s personal and professional evolution.
