The Shocking Final Answer: How Many Seasons Of S.W.A.T. Are There?

The question of "how many seasons of S.W.A.T." has become one of the most confusing and dramatic stories in network television history, but as of this current date in December 2025, the definitive answer is eight. The Shemar Moore-led police procedural has officially been through a tumultuous journey of multiple cancellations and renewals, culminating in a final, extended run that premiered in October 2024 and is set to conclude in May 2025.

This article will break down the full, up-to-the-minute details on the total number of seasons, the cast members returning for the final episodes, and the exciting new spin-off, S.W.A.T. Exiles, that will continue Sergeant Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson's story.

Shemar Moore: The Man Behind Hondo and the S.W.A.T. Legacy

The success and longevity of the S.W.A.T. series is inextricably linked to its star, Shemar Moore. His charisma and dedication to the role of Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson Jr. were instrumental in the show's repeated resurrections.

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Here is a brief biographical profile of the actor who led the 20-Squad for eight seasons:

• Full Name: Shemar Franklin Moore
• Born: April 20, 1970
• Notable Roles: Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson Jr. (S.W.A.T.), Derek Morgan (Criminal Minds), Malcolm Winters (The Young and the Restless)
• Education: Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications with a minor in Theater Arts from Santa Clara University.
• Career Highlight: Hosted the music variety show Soul Train from 2000 to 2003.
• Current Project: Set to reprise his role in the upcoming 10-episode spin-off series, S.W.A.T. Exiles.

The Definitive S.W.A.T. Season Count: From Six to Eight

The total number of seasons for the 2017 reboot of S.W.A.T. is eight (8). However, the path to this final tally was anything but straightforward, involving a highly publicized back-and-forth between the production studio and the network, CBS.

The show's history of cancellation and renewal is a rare case in modern television, demonstrating the power of fan campaigns and the financial viability of a series with strong international and streaming appeal.

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The Tumultuous Renewal History

The show was a ratings success, but its high production costs often put it on the bubble for renewal. The saga began in 2023, when the show was initially canceled after Season 6.

Following a massive fan outcry and an appeal from Shemar Moore himself, CBS quickly reversed the decision, renewing the show for a "final" Season 7.

The drama repeated itself in April 2024. Just as Season 7 was wrapping up, the network announced yet another surprise reversal, renewing the series for an eighth season for the 2024-2025 TV season. This renewal, however, was confirmed to be the show's definitive final run.

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S.W.A.T. Season 8: The Final Mission Details

Season 8, which premiered on CBS on October 18, 2024, is the last chapter for the LAPD's elite Special Weapons and Tactics team.

• Total Seasons: 8
• Final Season Episode Count: 22 episodes
• Premiere Date: October 18, 2024
• Series Finale Date: May 2025 (Expected)
• Streaming Home: The final season is also set to arrive on Netflix, expanding its reach globally.

The S.W.A.T. Team: Main Cast and Characters for the Final Season

The eighth season sees the return of several core cast members who have been with Sergeant Harrelson's Twenty Squad since the beginning, alongside some key promotions and new additions.

The team continues its mission to neutralize high-stakes threats across Los Angeles, tackling issues ranging from organized crime to domestic terrorism.

The main cast for the final season includes:

• Shemar Moore as Sergeant II Daniel "Hondo" Harrelson Jr. (Team Leader)
• Jay Harrington as Sergeant David "Deacon" Kay (The veteran officer and Hondo's right-hand man)
• David Lim as LAPD SWAT Officer III Victor Tan (The team's tactical expert)
• Patrick St. Esprit as LAPD SWAT Commander Robert "Bob" Hicks (The commanding officer)
• Anna Enger Ritch as LAPD SWAT Officer III Nora Fowler (Promoted to a series regular)
• Niko Pepaj as LAPD SWAT Officer III Alfaro (Upgraded to series regular for the final season)

Notably, the series finale is expected to provide emotional goodbyes for several characters, including Deacon, who revealed his plans for his bonus in the lead-up to the final mission.

The Future: S.W.A.T. Exiles and Hondo's New Chapter

While S.W.A.T. is concluding its run on CBS, the franchise is not over. The network has confirmed a spin-off series tentatively titled S.W.A.T. Exiles, ensuring the continuation of the core narrative.

This 10-episode spin-off will focus squarely on Hondo, played by Shemar Moore, as he leads a new, younger group of Gen Z squaddies.

What We Know About S.W.A.T. Exiles

The new series will take the action away from Los Angeles, focusing on international threats and a more mobile, elite unit. This new direction promises a fresh take on the action-drama formula that has kept the original show popular for so long.

New cast members joining the spin-off include Lucy Barrett, Adain Bradley, and Ronen Rubinstein, blending familiar faces like Hondo with a new generation of tactical officers.

The development of S.W.A.T. Exiles is a clear indicator that CBS and the production team are committed to the franchise, viewing the conclusion of the main series as a transition rather than a definitive end. Fans can look forward to Hondo’s new missions in the near future, ensuring the legacy of the S.W.A.T. team remains "liquid."