CBS Renews ‘S.W.A.T.’ for a Seventh Season After Facing Fan Backlash Over Cancellation

CBS has officially reversed its decision to cancel S.W.A.T.. Now, the Shemar Moore-led drama will return for a seventh and final season, thanks to its devoted fans, who rallied around its revival.

The show’s abrupt cancellation was announced Friday (May 5), after which fans, writers and stars from the show spoke out against the network’s decision.

Deadline reports CBS and Sony Pictures Television, the studio behind the series, then discussed the show’s fate over the weekend, during which they decided to renew the series for a seventh and final season of 13 episodes that will “give closure to the show’s storylines and characters, which audiences deserve,” according to CBS’ statement.

“We have listened to our viewers and their outpouring of passion for S.W.A.T. and we have reached an agreement to renew it for a final season…,” the statement reads, per Deadline. “S.W.A.T. has aired for six seasons on CBS and garnered a devoted following.”

It continues, “Once again, we appreciate the talents and efforts of the cast, writers, producers and crew and everyone who has contributed to the success of S.W.A.T. We look forward to its return next season.”

The seventh season is slated to premiere in the 2023-2024 broadcast year. Moore is also attached as an executive producer this season.

Moore stars as sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, who must balance the city he was raised in and his duty to his job. S.W.A.T., which is inspired by the television series and movie, also stars Alex Russell, Jay Harrington and Kenny Johnson.

The former Criminal Minds star shared an emotional Instagram post about the cancellation on Friday, calling it “a f—ing mistake.” He said, “I don’t think we’re done. CBS is either going to wake up and realize they made a mistake… Sony is going to do their math and realize that this is not the right move.”

Deadline reported on Friday that the show was canceled because CBS and Sony TV could not reach a financial agreement. Discussions resumed after both sides felt “that not all avenues had been explored to make a renewal work.”

The show was set to end with a two-part Season 6 finale on May 12 and May 19. But now, S.W.A.T. fans can expect more from the show later this year.