CBS has gone back on its decision to cancel S.W.A.T in a surprise development following criticism from fans. The network first announced the show would not be returning to TV screens for new series last week, but it has since backtracked on its original ruling.
Many fans were left furious as CBS revealed that the final instalment of the show would be its sixth series, sparking plenty of unhappy comments from viewers. Leading actor in the show since 2017, Shemar Moore, even said the decision “makes no sense.”
However, the show will now be coming back with a seventh season - which will be its last one. Taking to its official Instagram account earlier today (May 9), S.W.A.T responded to backlash in a new post.
"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 of 13 episodes to air during the 2023-2024 broadcast year," it said.
In a joint statement, President of CBS Entertainment Amy Reisenbach and President of Sony Pictures Television Studios Katherine Pope, added: "S.W.A.T. has aired for six seasons on CBS and garnered a devoted following. We are pleased that we found a way to bring it back and give closure to the show's storylines and characters, which audiences deserve.
"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."
In wake of the U-turn move, Shemar Moore shared his gratitude to fans ahead of the seventh and final series. "Ayyeee!!!!! We did it #SWATFAM!!!" He wrote on Instagram.
"@Swatcbs is coming back for a 7th and Final season with 13 Episodes!!! Thank you to all of you for the continued and amazing support!! Let's go."
Many fans flocked to the comment section to react. Scrappingcpa replied: "Shouldn’t be the final season but at least they wised up." Sophia added: "We did it!!!!! Can’t keep a good show down!!"
Itskokai typed: "Yayyy. Although I am admittedly sad that it’s the last season." Hearts13 put: "Happy about this but we need more than just season 7!" Nikopepa declared: "This is one of the happiest days of my life."
