CBS’ S.W.A.T. is just the latest of many shows that went through multiple cancellations before the decision finally stuck.
While most shows on CBS have had exceptional luck, S.W.A.T. was put through the wringer. Based on the 1975 TV show and 2003 film adaptation of the same name, S.W.A.T. centered on the Los Angeles Police Department. Premiering in 2017, Shemar Moore‘s action drama aired six seasons at CBS before it was picked up for a seventh and final run.
CBS ultimately reversed the decision and S.W.A.T. got a season 8. But the celebration didn’t last long, because the network cancelled the show for a second time in March 2025.
“I don’t think you’re making the right choice,” Moore told CBS in an Instagram video at the time. “Hey Netflix, how you doing? Let me just remind you that in a very short period of time, once upon a time ago … it only took us about two weeks to go from No. 15 … to No. 1. And then we stayed in your top 10, top 15 for about six months, nine months, maybe a year. So Netflix, if you’re interested in a show that is on autopilot that the world is watching, we’d love to come play.”
He continued: “NBC, Fox, ABC, hey, you want to come flirt with me? You’re invited to the barbecue. Pick your favorite restaurant. I will pay the bill. Trust me, all of us, the family over at SWAT, we ain’t done chasing bad guys and [performing] helicopter chases and motorcycle chases and car chases and blowing up stuff. We ain’t done.”
S.W.A.T. is one of several shows to be put in TV limbo over the years. Nashville, Baywatch, 7th Heaven and more were dropped by their respective networks before gaining a second chance and then getting canceled again. Keep scrolling for a breakdown of the biggest TV losses: