CBS Cancels ‘S.W.A.T.’ for the Third Time: Shemar Moore Reacts to the Unfortunate News

CBS has once again pulled the plug on its long-running action drama S.W.A.T., marking the third time the network has canceled the show. The decision comes after eight successful seasons, leaving fans and cast members disappointed. Series star Shemar Moore addressed the news, reflecting on the show’s resilience and the impact it had over the years.

A Rollercoaster Journey for S.W.A.T.

In an Instagram video posted on Friday, Moore shared his thoughts on the abrupt cancellation.

“We are canceled again,” Moore stated. “It sucks. It’s sad. Uncanceled twice, two years in a row. Now I don’t know my history, but how many shows get to say that? I’m going to say none. Or we’re one of the none. We did that, and we are so proud.”

The series, which follows LAPD SWAT Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson and his elite team, has faced a tumultuous renewal process in recent years. Initially canceled after its sixth season in 2023, CBS reversed its decision and renewed the show for a seventh and final season. In another unexpected move, the network extended the series for an eighth season, only to ultimately decide not to proceed further.

Breaking the News to the Crew

Moore, who has been the face of S.W.A.T. since its inception, revealed that he personally delivered the disappointing news to the crew.

“I had to give a speech today to my crew and say, ‘Hey, we’re done. There’s nothing I can say to make this sound nice, good, optimistic, nothing,’” he said. “But I told them to be proud because we defied the odds and created a hit television show that the world loved to watch.”

Behind CBS’ Decision

According to Deadline, CBS did not enter contract negotiations with Sony Pictures Television this year, unlike previous renewal cycles. Executive producer and showrunner Andrew Dettmann expressed his heartbreak over the decision, commending the cast and crew for their dedication throughout the show’s run.

“They are truly an extraordinary group of people who have all worked so hard and have been so dedicated for all these eight seasons, overcoming countless challenges,” Dettmann shared. “I can’t give them enough credit. I feel so privileged to have been a part of the S.W.A.T. family.”

The show maintained a loyal audience, averaging a 0.28 rating in the key 18-49 demographic, according to The TV Ratings Guide. However, shifting network priorities and corporate changes may have influenced CBS’ decision to part ways with the series.

Moore’s Message to CBS and Fans

Moore expressed gratitude toward CBS, acknowledging the network’s significant role in his career. Over the past 31 years, he has starred in several CBS productions, including Criminal Minds and The Young and the Restless.

“I say to CBS, if you’re done – I know it’s about money, optics, politics – I don’t think you’re making the right choice,” Moore stated. “But if you are done, I say thank you, genuinely, honestly from my heart.”

He also left the door open for other networks or streaming platforms, hinting at the possibility of S.W.A.T. finding a new home.

“If you’re interested in a show that’s on autopilot, that the world is watching, we’d love to come play,” he suggested, naming Netflix, NBC, Fox, and ABC as potential suitors.

Looking Ahead

Despite the disappointment, Moore remains optimistic about the future. He is excited for the next chapter of his life, both professionally and personally, especially as he focuses on his family, including his young daughter.

“I ain’t done. My knees are ready, I’ve lost 20 pounds, I’m ready to go,” he affirmed.

S.W.A.T. is not the only CBS show facing cancellation. The network also announced the end of FBI: Most Wanted after six seasons and FBI: International after four seasons, signaling a shift in CBS’ programming strategy.

As fans process the news, the hope remains that S.W.A.T. could find new life elsewhere. Until then, the series leaves behind a legacy of action-packed storytelling, a dedicated fan base, and a cast and crew who take immense pride in what they accomplished.

Source:https://nypost.com/