CBS has renewed the police procedural series S.W.A.T. for its seventh season, following a brief and premature cancellation. The plot, cast, and release date of the show have been revealed, providing fans with much anticipation. Since its debut in 2017, S.W.A.T., led by Shemar Moore, has captivated audiences with its thrilling action and gritty storytelling, setting itself apart from other procedural dramas. With several Primetime Emmy nominations and a successful run on CBS, the show's cancellation prior to the sixth season finale came as a surprise. However, due to overwhelming disappointment from fans and support from its star, Shemar Moore, S.W.A.T. was quickly renewed for its seventh season. This renewal serves as a testament to the dedicated audience that craves more of the series, ensuring that major changes will accompany the upcoming season.
SWAT Season 7 Latest News
S.W.A.T. faced a tumultuous period in May 2023, initially being cancelled by CBS and then later renewed. Shortly after this ordeal, a deal was struck with Netflix, securing the show's streaming future. As of May 17, 2023, the first five seasons of this iconic procedural are now available on Netflix. The sixth season will be released on the platform in the fall of 2023, followed by the seventh season at a later date.
CBS decided to cancel S.W.A.T. in order to maintain control over the Sony/CBS co-venture. However, due to complex legal issues, the network was unable to exclusively stream the series. The addition of S.W.A.T. on Netflix in mid-May significantly boosted its popularity, as it quickly rose to the top 10 streaming shows after being uncanceled. Furthermore, the show's availability on Hulu and Paramount Plus has made it easily accessible to a wide audience, solidifying its status as one of the most widely accessible network TV shows.
SWAT Season 7 Confirmed
After CBS controversially decided to cancel the popular show, S.W.A.T. season 7 faced a rocky period. However, the show was soon renewed, much to the delight of fans. The official confirmation of S.W.A.T. season 7's return has generated even more excitement, especially with the announcement of a new Netflix deal. With this development, there is a strong possibility that the show's audience will expand further, surpassing the viewership of its first six seasons.
The credit for S.W.A.T. season 7's renewal largely goes to Shemar Moore, the star of the show. Moore immediately expressed his dissatisfaction with CBS's decision on social media, using his platform to advocate for the show's continuation. As a veteran actor from two of CBS's biggest hits, S.W.A.T. and Criminal Minds, Moore's video on Instagram calling out the network proved prophetic as the show was indeed saved shortly after his post.
SWAT Season 7 Is The Last
S.W.A.T., which was unexpectedly saved from cancellation by CBS, will be returning for its seventh and final season. Despite being revived, the network has made it clear that this will be the end of the series, with a shortened season of only 13 episodes instead of the usual 22. It is evident that CBS does not have a long-term plan for the show. However, following its airing, the final season will be available on Netflix, just like the previous season.
The consistently strong viewership numbers of S.W.A.T. and its loyal fanbase suggest that the series has the potential for a new life elsewhere. Although ownership complications led to its initial cancellation, the show's presence on Netflix could give it a significant boost and potentially pave the way for a revival after season 7. It is not uncommon for streaming platforms to bring back network series that have been discontinued, and if legally feasible, S.W.A.T. may become the next target for the streaming giant.
SWAT Season 7 Release Date
Consistently airing since 2017, S.W.A.T. has premiered a season every fall without any interruptions. However, the recent cancellation and subsequent restart of the show within a few weeks may pose production challenges. While there is no official announcement about the release date of the upcoming season, there is a possibility that it could return in the fall of 2023. However, the temporary cancellation and the WGA Writers Strike might impact the production timeline. If S.W.A.T. season 7 does not arrive in fall 2023, it is likely to debut in early 2024 and follow its usual schedule, despite having a shorter season.
SWAT Season 7 Cast
Though details about the upcoming seventh season of S.W.A.T. are scarce, it is safe to assume that the majority of the main cast will return for the final installment. Leading the series since its inception, Shemar Moore will undoubtedly reprise his iconic role as Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson. Joining him, viewers can anticipate the return of long-time co-star Alex Russell as Officer Jim Street, as well as Kenny Johnson portraying Dominique Luca. Additionally, Jay Harrington and David Lim are expected to come back as David Kay and Victor Tan, respectively, while Rochelle Aytes will likely continue her portrayal of Nichelle Carmichael after being promoted to a main cast member in season six.
SWAT Season 7 Story Details
In typical procedural fashion, S.W.A.T. concludes its major storylines by the end of each season, paving the way for a fresh overarching plot in the following season. In the finale of Season 6, the infamous Mexican cartel leader, Sancho Zamora, was apprehended after a reign of terror driven by vengeance. As a result, it is highly unlikely that Zamora will play a role in Season 7 of S.W.A.T. However, one significant development from Season 6 that will be further explored in Season 7 is Hondo's proposal to Nichelle, which she joyfully accepted. Season 7 of S.W.A.T. presents an opportunity to provide Hondo and his team with a satisfying conclusion, a conclusion that was nearly denied when the show faced cancellation.