After seven adrenaline-fueled seasons of S.W.A.T., CBS is officially expanding the franchise with a brand-new spinoff: S.W.A.T. Exiles. Announced in May 2025, the series promises to push boundaries with a fresh story arc centered around a fan-favorite character—while introducing a new setting and cast dynamic that sets it apart from the original.
Here’s a full breakdown of what S.W.A.T. Exiles is about, who’s starring, and where you can watch it.
🚨 What Is S.W.A.T. Exiles About?
S.W.A.T. Exiles is an action-drama spinoff that follows Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, played by Shemar Moore, as he embarks on a mission outside of his L.A.-based S.W.A.T. team. The new series explores Hondo’s life after being separated—voluntarily or otherwise—from the unit he helped lead, plunging him into new conflicts and unfamiliar environments.
The key themes of Exiles include:
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Redemption and reinvention
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Working outside the system
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Global or cross-border justice efforts
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Personal stakes over procedural structure
Early teasers hint at a more serialized, emotionally intense show with darker storylines and an edge-of-your-seat tone.
👮 Who Stars in S.W.A.T. Exiles?
Confirmed:
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Shemar Moore as Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson
Moore reprises his iconic role, now front and center in a story that gives his character a solo spotlight.
Expected (But Not Officially Confirmed):
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New supporting cast members will likely include:
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Local operatives in Hondo’s new location
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Military or special task force characters
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Potential appearances from S.W.A.T. veterans (e.g., Deacon, Street) in guest roles or flashbacks
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Casting is still in early stages, but reports suggest international actors and a more diverse ensemble may be featured to match the show’s new global setting.
🌍 Where Is S.W.A.T. Exiles Set?
CBS has not officially confirmed the location, but several hints—including footage from the announcement video—suggest it could be set:
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Outside of Los Angeles
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Possibly in the American Southwest (e.g., Texas or New Mexico)
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Or even internationally (as part of an overseas mission or exile)
This change in scenery reinforces the show’s theme of isolation and starting over in hostile territory.
📺 Where Will S.W.A.T. Exiles Air?
S.W.A.T. Exiles will air on:
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CBS, its primary broadcast network
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Paramount+, where episodes will stream following their broadcast debut
The show is expected to premiere midseason in 2025, with a likely 8–10 episode arc in its first season. Whether it becomes a long-term series will depend on ratings and reception.
🎬 Is S.W.A.T. Exiles a Reboot or Sequel?
S.W.A.T. Exiles is not a reboot. It is a canonical spinoff, meaning it exists within the same universe as the original series, and follows up on events from it.
You can expect:
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References to the original team
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Possible cameos or crossovers
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Continuity in character arcs (especially for Hondo)
🤔 Why the Title ‘Exiles’?
The term “Exiles” implies:
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A character pushed out of their normal life or unit
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A self-imposed or forced separation
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A mission that goes beyond traditional law enforcement boundaries
This positions Exiles as a more personal, introspective journey than the main S.W.A.T. series, while still packed with action.
🧠 Will the Original S.W.A.T. Continue Alongside Exiles?
Yes — for now. CBS renewed the original S.W.A.T. series for Season 8. The two shows may run in parallel, with occasional character crossovers. However, some fans speculate that Exiles may eventually replace or succeed the original if ratings are strong.
📣 Fans’ Reactions So Far
The fanbase is energized but cautious:
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Excited for a Hondo-focused narrative
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Curious about the show’s darker tone
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Concerned about the absence of the full team
Early buzz on Reddit and Twitter shows that viewers are particularly eager to see how Hondo’s character evolves outside the team dynamic.
✅ Conclusion
S.W.A.T. Exiles is shaping up to be a bold evolution of the original CBS series — one that gives Shemar Moore’s beloved Hondo a new narrative playground. With a grittier tone, unfamiliar settings, and deeper emotional stakes, it aims to deliver something fresh while honoring the show’s action roots.
As the S.W.A.T. universe continues to grow, Exiles could mark the beginning of a new era — one that pushes character-driven storytelling further than ever before.
❓ FAQs About S.W.A.T. Exiles
1. Is Shemar Moore returning for S.W.A.T. Exiles?
Yes. He will reprise his role as Hondo and also serve as a producer.
2. When does S.W.A.T. Exiles premiere?
It’s expected to debut in mid-2025 on CBS and Paramount+.
3. Will any original S.W.A.T. cast members appear?
Possibly. No confirmations yet, but cameos or crossovers are likely.
4. Is Exiles replacing the main S.W.A.T. series?
Not immediately. Both shows are expected to run in tandem for at least one season.
5. Where is Exiles set?
CBS hasn’t confirmed the exact location, but it appears to be outside L.A., possibly in the Southwest or internationally.
