When CBS announced the S.W.A.T. spinoff EXILES, fans were thrilled to learn that Shemar Moore would be reprising his iconic role as Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson.
But it turns out, he won’t be going it alone.
According to early production leaks and interviews, EXILES will bring back more than just its leading man. Fan-favorite characters from the original series are set to return—and yes, some of the names may surprise you.
Let’s break down what we know so far.
What Is S.W.A.T.: EXILES About, Anyway?
A Grittier, Global, Off-the-Grid Take on Tactical Ops
EXILES picks up where S.W.A.T. Season 8 left off—with 20-Squad “staying liquid,” and Hondo possibly operating outside the boundaries of LAPD.
Early teases suggest:
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A new setting, likely international or covert
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A darker, rogue-team tone
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Missions that are less about red tape, more about results
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A blend of new recruits and seasoned vets
Think S.W.A.T. meets Mission: Impossible, with Hondo leading a team of operatives who’ve been “exiled” from traditional law enforcement but still fight for justice.
Shemar Moore’s Return as Hondo — The Heart of EXILES
Let’s be honest: EXILES wouldn’t work without Shemar Moore.
Moore confirmed his return via social media and a CBS press release, saying:
“Hondo still has work to do. He’s not done yet. And neither am I.”
His role in EXILES will reportedly see him navigating new leadership challenges, ethical dilemmas, and tactical missions in uncharted territory.
He’s older. Wiser. But still 100% Hondo.
Who Else Is Coming Back? The “Favorites” We Know About (So Far)
1. Alex Russell as Jim Street (Very Likely)
Russell’s character was underutilized in S.W.A.T. Season 8, which now seems strategic.
Rumors say Jim Street will rejoin Hondo as his second-in-command—a soldier who thrives in unconventional settings.
Given Street’s rebellious streak and loyalty to Hondo, this pairing makes perfect sense.
2. David Lim as Victor Tan (Heavily Teased)
Tan’s future was left vague in the finale—but David Lim has dropped multiple hints on Instagram about “unfinished business.”
EXILES could give Tan a shot at high-level global work, especially if he leaves the LAPD officially.
3. Kenny Johnson as Luca (Surprising, But Possible)
Luca’s emotional farewell in S.W.A.T. seemed final… but nothing’s ever really final in TV land.
Insiders suggest Kenny Johnson may reprise his role in a “mentor” capacity, especially for the training of new EXILES recruits.
This version of Luca may not be breaching doors—but his experience will be essential.
Who Might Return But Isn’t Confirmed Yet
4. Jay Harrington as Deacon Kay
Deacon was the team’s moral compass—and his slow arc toward retirement didn’t exactly close in the finale.
Fans hope to see Deacon make guest appearances, offering strategy or even joining the EXILES squad temporarily. CBS has not confirmed this yet.
5. Lina Esco as Chris Alonso
Chris left the original show in Season 5, but she’s remained a fan-favorite. Her tactical expertise and passion for justice make her a perfect fit for the more radical tone of EXILES.
Nothing official yet—but whispers of her return have been circulating.
New Characters? Count on It.
While the fan favorites are returning, EXILES will also introduce a new generation of rogue operatives—likely from military, federal, or international backgrounds.
CBS has put out casting calls for:
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A former CIA specialist with a haunted past
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An ex-Interpol agent turned mercenary
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A cyber-intelligence officer with no loyalty to government agencies
Expect a blend of fresh talent and familiar loyalty.
What Makes EXILES Different from S.W.A.T.?
The original S.W.A.T. was about protocol, chain of command, and serving under pressure.
EXILES? It’s shaping up to be:
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More raw
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More personal
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Less political correctness, more real-world edge
With characters no longer tied to LAPD’s rules, expect darker decisions, tougher choices, and blurred moral lines.
This could be CBS’s most grounded, gritty spinoff yet.
How It Connects to the Season 8 Finale
Remember that mysterious final line?
“20-Squad stays liquid.”
It was more than a goodbye—it was a handoff.
A signal that the story wasn’t ending. It was shifting gears.
EXILES appears to be the spiritual continuation of that arc. The team didn’t vanish—they evolved.
Will There Be Crossovers With Other CBS Shows?
CBS is known for building connected universes (hello, NCIS + FBI + Fire Country).
With EXILES on the way, crossovers are very much on the table, especially with international units or other rogue teams.
We might even see a shared case between EXILES and FBI: Most Wanted, or a crossover event with NCIS: Sydney.
When Is EXILES Coming Out?
CBS has yet to announce an official premiere date, but sources indicate:
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Production is underway as of mid-2025
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A premiere is expected in early-to-mid 2026, likely as a spring replacement or summer release
We’ll know more as teasers and trailers drop in the coming months.
Final Thoughts — EXILES Is the Reboot Fans Didn’t Know They Needed
S.W.A.T.: EXILES isn’t just a Shemar Moore vehicle—it’s a smart way to expand the franchise without repeating the past.
By pulling in fan-favorite characters and placing them in high-stakes, off-the-grid scenarios, CBS is crafting something that feels fresh yet familiar.
We’re getting more Hondo.
More tactical action.
And maybe—just maybe—the return of a full-blown 20-Squad, operating outside the lines.
FAQs
1. Is Shemar Moore starring in S.W.A.T.: EXILES?
Yes. He is officially returning as Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson.
2. Which other characters from S.W.A.T. are returning?
Alex Russell (Jim Street) and David Lim (Tan) are heavily rumored. Kenny Johnson (Luca) may return in a limited role. CBS has confirmed “fan favorites” will appear, but exact names are still being revealed.
3. Is EXILES a direct continuation of S.W.A.T. Season 8?
In spirit, yes. It picks up after the finale and explores where the team goes from there—specifically Hondo and other ex-members.
4. Will there be new characters in EXILES?
Absolutely. New operatives, global missions, and possibly even characters from other CBS dramas will appear.
5. When does S.W.A.T.: EXILES premiere?
It’s expected to debut in early-to-mid 2026, though an exact date hasn’t been announced yet.
Get ready—EXILES is more than just Hondo’s next mission.
It’s the evolution of the entire franchise. And your favorite characters might be along for the ride. 💥
