Introduction – More Than Just a Police Drama
If you’ve ever tuned in to S.W.A.T., you know it’s not just about tactical gear and explosive action. It’s about brotherhood, loyalty, sacrifice—and those intense, high-stakes missions. But if you’re a ride-or-die fan, there are certain behind-the-scenes details and character truths that only you would catch.
Let’s dive into 10 things only true, die-hard S.W.A.T. fans know about the show’s core team. From training regimens to real-life friendships, this list goes way beyond what casual viewers notice.
The Core Team – Who Are They Again?
Before we get into the good stuff, here’s a refresher:
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Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson (Shemar Moore) – The fearless leader with a moral compass.
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Dominique Luca (Kenny Johnson) – The team’s driver and heavy weapons expert.
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Victor Tan (David Lim) – The tech-savvy tactician.
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Jim Street (Alex Russell) – The hot-headed but loyal rookie-turned-veteran.
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David “Deacon” Kay (Jay Harrington) – The glue of the team, full of heart and strategy.
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Christina “Chris” Alonso (Lina Esco) – A fierce former team member who made history.
Now that we’re all on the same page, let’s get into the insider-level facts.
1. Hondo Wasn’t Supposed to Be the Team Leader Originally
The Role Almost Went to Another Character
In early drafts of the S.W.A.T. reboot, Hondo wasn’t originally written as the team leader. That role was possibly going to be Deacon’s. However, once Shemar Moore signed on, the script was rewritten to make Hondo the central figure—smart move, right?
2. Kenny Johnson Does Many of His Own Stunts
Luca Isn’t Just Tough on Screen
Kenny Johnson, who plays Luca, is all about practical action. He performs a large portion of his own stunts and has shared intense behind-the-scenes training footage on social media. If you’ve seen Luca bust through a door or roll off a vehicle—chances are it was really him.
3. David Lim Wasn’t Originally Cast as a Main Character
From Guest Star to Series Regular
Victor Tan wasn’t intended to be a permanent fixture. David Lim joined S.W.A.T. as a recurring character, but his performance and chemistry with the team led to him being promoted to series regular in Season 2. And honestly? The show wouldn’t be the same without him.
4. The Actors Trained With Real SWAT Officers
Authenticity Was Non-Negotiable
The entire cast underwent tactical training with LAPD officers. From clearing rooms to breaching doors, the actors trained like real SWAT officers to keep everything feeling real. This level of dedication shows in every action scene.
5. Shemar Moore Is a Real-Life Leader Off-Screen Too
He’s Also a Producer and Advocate
Shemar Moore doesn’t just act in S.W.A.T.—he’s also an executive producer. He’s deeply involved in shaping the show’s narrative and direction, especially when it comes to diversity and social justice themes. He’s used his platform to speak out about police reform and race relations, just like Hondo.
6. Chris Was the First Female SWAT Officer on the Show—and It Mattered
Breaking Ground in Primetime
Lina Esco’s character, Chris Alonso, wasn’t just another team member. She was the first female SWAT officer in the unit, representing real progress both on and off screen. Her storyline tackled LGBTQ+ themes, workplace challenges, and female empowerment—something rare in cop dramas.
7. There Are Real Friendships Behind the Cameras
That Chemistry Isn’t Fake
The bond between the cast isn’t just good acting. Shemar Moore, Kenny Johnson, and Jay Harrington have shared that their off-screen friendships help drive the emotional depth of their characters. They hang out, crack jokes, and support each other like a real squad.
8. Every Member of the Team Has a Specific Role in Combat
Tactical Structure Matters
Fans who watch closely will notice that each core team member has a specialized combat role:
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Hondo = Team Leader
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Luca = Driver & Heavy Weapons
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Street = Entry Specialist
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Tan = Surveillance & Tech
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Deacon = Tactical Strategy
This structure is modeled after real-life SWAT teams.
9. The Show Features Real LAPD Procedures
It’s Not Just TV Drama
Writers and consultants work closely with actual LAPD officers to make sure the show stays as close to protocol as possible. From radio chatter to tactical hand signals, the accuracy is impressive—and die-hard fans can definitely tell.
10. There Are Subtle Callbacks to the 1975 Original Series
A Tribute to the OG S.W.A.T.
Sharp-eyed fans might catch moments that pay homage to the original S.W.A.T. series from the ’70s. The iconic theme music has been subtly modernized, and certain character names and traits nod back to the original cast.
The Team’s Legacy Lives On
Even though S.W.A.T. wrapped up its run, the heart of the team lives on in spinoffs, reruns, and the hearts of dedicated fans. Whether you’re a Hondo loyalist or a Luca die-hard, these ten facts remind us why the show resonated so deeply with its core audience.
Conclusion – Real Fans Know It’s Deeper Than Action
Sure, S.W.A.T. has the explosions and the car chases—but its real power lies in the humanity of its core team. The loyalty, the moral dilemmas, the brotherhood and sisterhood—that’s what made this show binge-worthy and Emmy-nominated.
Die-hard fans already knew this, of course. But now, hopefully, even casual viewers get a glimpse into what made this team unforgettable.
FAQs
Q1: Which S.W.A.T. character has been on the team the longest?
A1: Deacon Kay has the most tenure on th
