S.W.A.T. Spinoff Faces Cast Backlash

After CBS canceled 'S.W.A.T.' following eight seasons, Sony Pictures Television announced a spinoff, 'S.W.A.T. Exiles', with Shemar Moore as the only returning cast member. The decision ignited backlash, particularly from David Lim and other former cast and crew, who criticized the lack of recognition for the original ensemble and felt sidelined after the finale. Sony Pictures TV President Katherine Pope responded by suggesting that popular characters might appear in the new series, though no other main cast members are confirmed. Moore defended the change, expressing gratitude to his former colleagues and optimism for the spinoff's future. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions in TV franchises between honoring legacy casts and pursuing creative reinvention. The spinoff is being developed by Sony Pictures Television and will be offered to networks such as CBS and Paramount+.