The end of S.W.A.T. was emotional for fans, cast, and crew alike. But while CBS moves full steam ahead with a spin-off led by Shemar Moore, not everyone from the original team is celebrating. Actor David Lim, who portrayed Officer Victor Tan for seven seasons, has opened up about the sting of exclusion—and his words are striking a chord across the fandom.
David Lim Breaks His Silence
“It Stings—Of Course It Does”
In a candid interview with TV Insider, David Lim got real about how it feels watching S.W.A.T. continue without him. “When you give your all to something for so long and you’re not part of the next chapter, it stings. Of course it does.”
His honesty cuts deep—not just for fans, but for anyone who’s ever felt sidelined after investing heart and soul into a team.
The Context—What’s Going on With the Spin-Off?
Shemar Moore Moves On—With CBS
After S.W.A.T. was unexpectedly canceled by CBS, it didn’t take long before the network announced a spin-off series focused on Moore’s character, Hondo. The new project promises a fresh take, with younger recruits, a darker tone, and a new city. But it also comes with a notable absence—most of the original team, including David Lim, won’t be part of it.
Victor Tan—A Fan-Favorite Left Out
Why David Lim Deserved More
For seven seasons, Tan was more than just backup—he was a core member of the team. His character represented loyalty, growth, and quiet strength. From tense hostage situations to powerful moments of vulnerability, Tan earned his stripes.
So when Lim was left out of the spin-off discussions entirely? Fans and critics alike started asking: Why?
Inside the Cast Dynamics
Was There a Rift Between Moore and Lim?
Not necessarily. While neither party has hinted at personal beef, Lim’s comments suggest a lack of communication or closure. “I’ve got nothing but respect for Shemar,” he said, “but it’s tough not being part of something you helped build.”
Shemar Moore’s Silence
Moore hasn’t publicly responded to Lim’s comments yet, but the absence of a statement is being noticed. Many are wondering whether the decision to exclude original cast members came from CBS, Moore, or both.
Fan Reactions Pour In
Loyalty Runs Deep in the Fandom
After Lim’s comments hit the web, fans flooded Twitter and Reddit with support. “No Tan, no watch,” one fan tweeted. Others have called for the spin-off to include original cast members or risk alienating the S.W.A.T. faithful.
The Hashtag Movement Returns
#JusticeForTan is starting to gain traction, echoing the earlier #SaveSWAT campaign. Fans want their favorite characters to get the closure—and recognition—they deserve.
Behind the Industry Curtain
Spin-Offs Are Often Political
Let’s get real—Hollywood decisions are rarely personal. Spin-offs are strategic: new cast, lower budgets, fresh appeal. But that doesn’t mean they don’t hurt.
Veteran actors often get sidelined in favor of younger talent or different creative visions, even when they’re integral to a show’s success.
David Lim’s Future—What’s Next?
Moving Forward, With Class
Despite the sting, Lim says he’s proud of his time on S.W.A.T. and grateful for the fans. “The show gave me so much. I’ll always carry that with me.” He’s already fielding new roles and hinted at an upcoming project that’s “very different” from what fans are used to seeing.
What This Means for the Spin-Off
A Legacy in Question
The exclusion of key cast members puts pressure on the new S.W.A.T. project to earn its place. Without the emotional weight and camaraderie of the original team, will it hit the same?
Moore’s Burden
As both star and executive producer, Shemar Moore will need to walk a fine line—balancing evolution with loyalty. And fans will be watching every move.
Could Tan Still Return?
Never Say Never
Television is a flexible game. While Lim isn’t part of the current spin-off plans, a fan-fueled movement—or a shift in direction—could always bring Tan back. Cameos, flashbacks, or even a late-season return are all on the table if the creators are listening.
Lessons From This Fallout
Respect the Past While Building the Future
What happened with David Lim is a reminder that spin-offs should honor the legacy they come from. Characters like Tan weren’t just filler—they were family to fans. When you erase them, you risk erasing what made the show special.
Conclusion
David Lim’s candid comments about the S.W.A.T. spin-off sting for a reason—they reflect a broader truth about how Hollywood often treats legacy cast members. While Shemar Moore’s new chapter is filled with promise, the absence of familiar faces like Tan leaves a noticeable void. The heart of S.W.A.T. was always about the team, and without all its parts, something feels missing.
FAQs
❓ What did David Lim say about the ‘S.W.A.T.’ spin-off?
He said being left out “stings” and expressed disappointment at not being included after seven years with the show.
❓ Will David Lim appear in the spin-off?
As of now, no. There are no official plans for Tan to appear in the new series.
❓ Did Shemar Moore respond to David Lim’s statement?
Not yet. Moore has remained quiet on Lim’s comments so far.
❓ Why isn’t Tan in the spin-off?
No official reason has been given. It may be due to creative direction, budget, or casting priorities.
❓ Could David Lim return to the S.W.A.T. universe in the future?
It’s possible. With enough fan support, producers could be persuaded to bring him back in some capacity.
Custom Message:
Real fans know the team was never complete without Tan. If you’re feeling the sting like David Lim, show your support—share this story, keep the conversation going, and remind Hollywood who really makes a show unforgettable.
