S.W.A.T. is headed into TV retirement.
CBS canceled the police drama after six seasons, with the announcement coming Friday evening.
“For six seasons, the amazing talents of the S.W.A.T. cast led by Shemar Moore, the writers, producers and crew guided by executive producers Shawn Ryan, Andy Dettman and Aaron Rahsaan Thomas brought us compelling, action-packed episodes that also addressed important social issues and contributed to the success of our primetime lineup,” CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach said in a statement. “We sincerely thank them for their incredible work and passion and also thank our dedicated fans who tuned in every week.”
Related Story: Mo’Nique Sues CBS, Paramount Over ‘Millions’ in Unpaid Profits for ‘The Parkers’
The series premiered in 2017 and centers on locally born and bred LAPD Sergeant Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson (Shemar Moore) and his team of highly-trained men and women as they solve crimes in Los Angeles.
In addition to Moore, the drama stars Alex Russell, Kenny Johnson, Jay Harrington, David Lim, Patrick St. Esprit, and Rochelle Aytes.
Ratings were not the reason for the cancellation. This season the show has been averaging 6.8 million total viewers and a 0.7 rating, up about six percent in viewers from season 5, according to Nielsen figures.
The Friday-night drama is a co-production of Sony Pictures TV and CBS Studios.
During an March interview with The Hollywood Reporter‘s “TV’s Top 5” podcast, showrunner Shawn Ryan said the economics of the business are changing and it was unclear if the series would continue.
“There’s pressure to bring costs down,” Ryan explained.
Meanwhile, Moore posted photos from the show on Instagram Friday, and urged viewers to watch tonight’s episode. Although he did not address the cancellation.
Still, fans commented on the post, saying they were disappointed the show would be ending.
“Great show and mad as hell CBS has chosen not to renew it for Season 7. I hope another network picks this show up. Great cast and storylines. Been watching you Shemar since Young and Restless days. CBS made a mistake canceling your show,” one person wrote.
“Literally just got the news they canceled it… so upset,” another person shared.
The final episode of S.W.A.T. will air on May 19.
Related
‘S.W.A.T.’ Canceled After 6 Seasons on CBS